Neil Black: Dina Asher-Smith leads tributes after former British Athletics performance director dies aged 60

Former British Athletics performance director Neil Black has died at the age of 60
AFP via Getty Images
George Flood21 April 2020

Figures from across British athletics have paid tribute to the late Neil Black.

The death of British Athletics' former performance director at age 60 was confirmed by the national governing body in a statement released on Tuesday.

“British Athletics is shocked and saddened to confirm the loss of our friend and former colleague Neil Black, who passed away suddenly at the weekend," the statement read.

“Neil loved the sport of athletics and dedicated his life to supporting athletes – as a world-class physiotherapist, as head of sport science and then in recent years as performance director at British Athletics.

“Since leaving the role of performance director in October 2019, he had been continuing to support a number of athletes and coaches as an advisor.

“Neil will be hugely missed by those that knew and worked with him. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Black's family said: "We would like to thank people for the wonderful and heartfelt messages we have received. So many people have been in touch, it is clear to us how loved Neil was and this is bringing us some comfort at this time."

Black's passing has led to an outpouring of grief and touching tributes from athletes that worked alongside him.

"Incredibly sad and shocking news," wrote world 200m champion Dina Asher-Smith. "I really can’t believe it.

"He was a genuinely lovely, caring and kind-hearted man whose sense of humour and positivity would light up a room.

"Rest in peace Neil, you’ll be dearly missed by all + my thoughts are with your family at this time."

World heptathlon champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson tweeted: "Devastating news to wake up to. He was a thoughtful, passionate, kind hearted man who helped so many athletes.

"He will be missed by many. Rest in peace Neil."

"Such sad sad news to hear of the passing of Neil Black," said middle-distance runner Laura Muir. "He was always incredibly supportive and a lovely caring man.

"Thoughts go out to his friends and family. RIP Neil you will be sorely missed."

Three-time Olympic bronze medallist Kelly Sotherton said: "He came everywhere with me and made sure I was held together physically and mentally. So many things I want to say... I’ll miss you forever Neil Black

"530am , 20th August 2004, Athens Olympics, Dinning Hall ... danced on a chair to some hardcore dance music ... because I asked him to make me laugh (I was so nervous) before the Heptathlon. .. just what Blacko did."

Paula Radcliffe said: "Very saddened by the passing of Neil Black. A gentle, loyal, thoughtful & extremely hard working man who quietly helped so many achieve their dreams.

"His satisfaction came from quietly watching those dreams unfold and standing true to himself. His legacy lives on in those dreams."

Olympic 400m medallist Katharine Merry said: "What sad news to wake up to. The passing of Neil Black is truly a shock to the world of athletics and to all that knew him for so long... Blimey .. I can’t believe it ...

"There is a reason why Neil Black is trending now ... he wasn’t a celebrity, he wasn’t known by millions .. but he was respected and liked by so many .... the outpouring of shock and sadness of his passing sums up how much he was thought of. I will miss you Neil."

110m hurdler William Sharman said: "RIP to Neil Black. I was lucky enough to have Neil treat me. An amazing practitioner, unique work ethic and always thought outside the box."

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