Induction into England Athletics Hall of Fame 2011

To coach one athlete to an Olympic title and world record is a monumental achievement, but in Bruce Longden’s case he guided two of Britain’s greatest ever athletes to the ultimate distinction in the sport. A year before being appointed a BAAB National Coach, he began coaching a precocious all-rounder by the name of Daley Thompson – and later, he was coaching another athlete who would hit the heights in Sally Gunnell. In 1984 as Head Coach for the Norwegian Athletic Federation for 4 years, then returned to Britain to serve as a BAF National Coach from 1991 to 1997, his specialist areas being the combined events, hurdles and jumps, and these days he divides his time between France and South Africa.

Bruce receiving his Hall of Fame award from Sally Gunnell.