Bill Turner, the legendary horse trainer, has died at 78 after a freak accident at his stables. The incident left him with a severe skull fracture, and he passed away less than three days later. Known for his lively personality and passion for racing, Turner trained winners since 1979 and claimed the Brocklesby Stakes six times.
His daughter Kathy shared her grief, saying, “He wasn’t just my dad, he was everyone’s dad.” She recalled his fearless spirit, from rescuing horses to climbing rooftops just days before the accident. Turner’s love for animals even led him to train a zebra named Zebedee, which he famously rode to his local pub.
Friends and fans have flooded the family with messages of love and support. A minute’s silence was held at Salisbury Racecourse to honor his remarkable life. As BHA’s Chief Executive Brant Dunshea put it, “Bill was a wonderful stalwart of our sport.”
Turner’s legacy lives on—not only in racing history but in the countless lives he touched. His story is a reminder to live fully, doing what you love.
