Bill Baillie, a revered figure in New Zealand athletics, is hailed as one of the most exceptional and versatile long-distance runners the country has ever seen. Sadly, Bill Baillie passed away at the age of 84. He was part of a renowned cohort of athletes coached by the legendary Arthur Lydiard, and his departure occurred on Christmas Day.
Baillie rose to fame during a golden era of New Zealand athletics, sharing the spotlight with luminaries such as Murray Halberg, Peter Snell, John Davies, and Barry Magee, among other esteemed athletes. Bill’s son, Russell Baillie, shared the news of his father’s peaceful passing while he was asleep, confirming the family’s loss.
The Baillie family was enjoying the holiday season at Cooks Beach in Coromandel. According to Russell, in the days leading up to his passing, Bill appeared lively and in good health, relishing the time spent with three generations of his family. On Christmas Eve, surrounded by around a dozen family members at the dinner table, Bill seemed well, despite showing some signs of not feeling completely himself.
During dinner, Bill opted not to finish his glass of red wine, retired to bed as usual later that night, read for a brief period, and peacefully drifted off to sleep. Tragically, it was in his slumber that Bill Baillie bid farewell during the night. Baillie notably competed in four Empire and Commonwealth Games between 1954 and 1966, as well as the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, where he impressively made it to the 5000-meter final finishing in the sixth position among stiff competition.
