Ron Turner

Originally a member of the Willesden Swimming Club, Ron Turner went on to have a long association with the London Penguin Swimming Club. He served them as an administrator and president, and was the club captain and mainstay of their side for many years, notably in the early post-World War II years. As a result, he became known as “The Legend of Penguin”. Turner helped Penguins to win four National Polo Championships in 1947, 1951-52, and 1965. He was also president of the London Water Polo League and Middlesex County Association.

Tuner enjoyed an eight-year international career between 1948-56, which saw him win 70 England caps. He was a reserve for the 1948 London Olympics, but went on to compete at Helsinki in 1952 and Melbourne in 1956. After the 1956 Olympics, Turner was honoured to be selected for the Rest of the World team that played champions Hungary. He also competed in the 1954 European Championships.

By trade Turner was an engineer with the well-known Lucas Company. He lost his life in a motoring accident while cycling at Acton in London. His memory lived on when both the Penguin Club and London Water Polo League named memorial trophies in his honour.