Thoroughbred racing mourns the loss of a true legend, William “Billy” H. Turner Jr., who passed away peacefully at his home in Reddick, Fla., on December 31. Turner, best known as the trainer of the iconic 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew, was 81. His passing marks the end of an era for many in the sport, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, skill, and a profound connection with the horses he trained.
Born in Rochester, N.Y., on February 29, 1940, Turner established his career primarily at Belmont Park. He was known for his preference for maintaining a small stable, typically around 30 horses. This hands-on approach allowed him to deeply understand and individually train each horse, recognizing their unique personalities and capabilities. His early career began with steeplechase horses in Pennsylvania, where he excelled as a jockey before transitioning into training. He obtained his training license in 1966 and quickly made a name for himself through his meticulous methods and the success of his trainees.
Turner’s impact on Thoroughbred racing is undeniable. Equibase statistics from 1976 to 2016 reveal that his trained horses achieved 533 wins, accumulating over $17.5 million in earnings. While statistics prior to 1976 are incomplete, his career spanned several decades of consistent performance. His most successful year financially was in 2005, when his runners earned over $1 million. Beyond Seattle Slew, Turner also trained other notable Grade 1 winners such as Gaviola and Czaravich, further cementing his reputation as a top-tier trainer. For those interested in the history of racing legends, learning about Seattle Slew horse racing provides further context to Turner’s remarkable achievements.
Seattle Slew, inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981, remained under Turner’s expert care through his phenomenal undefeated Triple Crown run. Turner guided the son of Bold Reasoning to victory in the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in 1977, earning him Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old male titles. This unparalleled achievement solidified Seattle Slew’s place in racing history and showcased Turner’s exceptional talent as a conditioner. After his 4-year-old season, Seattle Slew was subsequently trained by Douglas Peterson.
Following his retirement from training, Turner resided in Marion County, Fla. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer nearly two years prior to his death, which had unfortunately spread and weakened his bones. His condition worsened, leading to a hospitalization on December 17 due to severe shortness of breath, which revealed the cancer had metasten to his lungs. Opting against further aggressive treatment, he was moved to hospice care on December 28.
Just months before his passing, Turner’s cancer was believed to be stable, with prospects of several more years. However, the rapid spread to his lungs led to a swift decline. In the days leading up to his death, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to support Turner with medical and living expenses, and to allow friends and admirers to share their memories. The response was overwhelming, with an outpouring of love and financial assistance. Turner’s wife, Pat, spent his final days reading him the heartfelt messages of support and admiration, which provided him great comfort.
Pat Turner released a touching statement following her husband’s death: “Billy Turner passed away this afternoon peacefully at home. I want to take a moment to thank every person who contributed to his physical care and lifting him up in your thoughts and prayers. I was able to read him all the messages sharing your kindness and admiration of him. It meant a great deal to me to be able to let him know how loved he was in his last moments.”
A memorial service to celebrate Billy Turner’s life will be announced at a later date. His contributions to Thoroughbred racing and his gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
