Tributes have poured in for Dick McTaggart, Scotland’s only Olympic boxing gold medallist, who has passed away at the age of 89.
McTaggart made history in 1956, securing gold in the lightweight division at the Melbourne Olympics, and later added a bronze medal at the Rome Olympics in 1960.
Born in Dundee in 1935, McTaggart was one of 18 children. His boxing journey began while serving as a cook in the Royal Air Force, where his talent in the ring quickly set him apart.
He went on to achieve an incredible record, winning 610 of his 634 amateur bouts.
Despite multiple offers to turn professional, McTaggart remained committed to amateur boxing. He won the prestigious Val Barker Trophy at the 1956 Olympics, awarded to the tournament’s best stylistic boxer.
His achievements extended beyond the Olympics, claiming gold at the 1958 Commonwealth Games and silver in 1962.
He was also a five-time British ABA champion, securing titles in 1956, 1958, 1960, 1963, and 1965.
His contributions to boxing continued long after retirement. In 1985, he was awarded an MBE for his dedication to amateur boxing in Scotland.
As a coach, he helped train the Scottish team for the 1986 and 1990 Commonwealth Games, mentoring young fighters and shaping the future of the sport.
McTaggart’s legacy is honoured in his hometown of Dundee, where a 9ft statue stands at the St Francis Boxing Club, and a sports centre bears his name.
His family described him as “a true gentleman and a legend in the boxing world”, expressing that he will be “deeply missed but forever in our hearts.”
A sporting icon who remained humble despite his success, McTaggart’s impact on boxing and Scottish sport will never be forgotten.
