British Swimming is mourning the sad loss of renowned coaching figure Paddy Garratt after he passed away.
During his 40 plus years in the sport, Paddy developed a succession of great swim teams and produced over 70 International Swimmers including 1980 Olympic Champion, Duncan Goodhew, and 5 times World Champion, Mark Foster.
Paddy, himself, was selected by GB and England to coach at several World, European and Commonwealth Championships and at Olympic Games.
In 1968, Paddy became Britain’s first full-time professional coach operating outside of the governing body, at Millfield School where he set up and established a programme and process that brought much success at all levels of the sport.
In addition to his success at developing swimmers and teams, Paddy was passionate about supporting and developing fellow coaches. He was an active member of the BSCA from its inception in 1965 and he, supported by his wife, 3 times Olympian Caroline Garratt, ran courses and clinics for coaches very successfully over many years.
In 2013, the BSCA recognised Paddy’s extraordinary contribution to swim coaching in Britain by awarding him the BSCA Lifetime Achievement Award.
Paddy will be remembered as a great educator, mentor and source of guidance and support that continues to this day. He also set up SwimTec UK, providing educational materials and equipment for swimmers, coaches and clubs.
GB Head Coach, Bill Furniss said: "This is a very sad day for the British Swimming community. Paddy inspired several generations of both swimmers and coaches. He was always a gentleman as well as a world class coach."