17 July 2013

UKA learned today (17 July 2013) of the sad news that Todd Benett has died.

The 51-year-old Olympic silver medallist lost his battle against cancer.

Southampton-born Bennett enjoyed great success as an athlete including a silver medal at the 1984 Olympic Games in 4 x 400m relay.

He was also a former world indoor 400m record holder – clocking a time of 45.46 seconds.

The 400m specialist excelled on the indoor stage and was European Indoor Champion in 1985 and 1987. A silver medal was also added to his collection at the World Indoor Championships in 1985.

Following his retirement from the track, Todd became a UKA employee working with the national junior teams and latterly national event coach for the 400m and also 4 x 400m relay.

UKA would like to express our deepest sympathy to Todd’s wife Vanessa and children Aaron and Daena. An athletics legacy has been passed down in the Bennett family with Aaron and Daena – two talented athletes – about to embark on US scholarships.

Speaking on behalf of the UKA Board, Jason Gardener MBE  said: “It is a very sad day for athletics and my thoughts are with Todd’s family. I like many was inspired as a child watching Todd achieve such great success on the track representing Great Britain & Northern Ireland.

"I was fortunate to meet and work with Todd through his school engagement programme where he inspired thousands of young people throughout the UK to take part and enjoy sport as well as raising funds for school sport. He will be greatly missed, but I am sure his legacy will continue."