Legendary Racing Trainer Bill Turner Dies After Tragic Accident

Bill Turner, a revered figure in the British horse racing community, has passed away at the age of 78 after suffering a fatal accident earlier this week. Turner, based in Sigwells, was a former jockey turned trainer known especially for his extraordinary success in the Brocklesby Stakes at Doncaster, the traditional season-opening flat race. Over his career, he secured victory in this iconic race six times, cementing his legacy.

The accident occurred on Monday when Turner was struck by a horse at his racing yard, leading to a severe skull fracture. He was hospitalized in critical condition. His daughter, Kathy Turner, confirmed his death on Thursday afternoon at Chepstow racecourse during an interview with Sky Sports Racing. She shared, “Dad passed away about an hour and a half ago.”

Kathy reflected on her father’s dedication to racing and the widespread support from the racing community since his accident. “The support from everyone in racing has been absolutely outstanding. The love that man had was absolute,” she said. She described Bill Turner not only as a beloved father and grandfather but also as a mentor and father figure to many within the racing world.

Turner’s impact extended beyond personal relationships. Kathy recounted that, despite this devastating incident, Bill would have preferred to be “going flat out up the gallops.” She also remarked on his resilience, recalling how she had previously helped him recover from serious injuries sustained during training.

One of Turner’s last notable achievements was training Mick’s Yer Man to win the Brocklesby Stakes in 2013—a victory made even more special as it was achieved by his grandson, Ryan While. Kathy emphasized, “His best ever moment was when Ryan won the Brocklesby on Mick’s Yer Man.”

Bill Turner’s passing marks the end of an era in British flat racing, but his legacy lives on through the many careers he helped shape and his family who continue in the sport he loved.