Camille Muffat

British Swimming mourns loss of a champion

10 Mar 2015

British Swimming has sent its deepest condolences to the family and friends of OIympic champion Camille Muffat following the news of her death in a helicopter accident.

British Swimming Chief Executive David Sparkes said: "This is such sad news. Camille was a great swimmer who achieved so much and she will be missed by everyone in the swimming world. I have today sent our deepest condolences to the French Swimming President and Camille's family."

Camille was among 10 people killed when two helicopters crashed in Argentina yesterday. Eight French nationals, including yachtswoman Florence Arthaud and Olympic boxer Alexis Vastine, as well as two Argentian pilots were lost. The helicopters were involved in the filming of a survival show for television.

Camille won three medals at the London 2012 Olympic Games the pinnacle of which was gold in the 400m Freestyle.

British Swimming Head Coach Bill Furniss, who previously coached former Olympic Champion Rebecca Adlington, said: "Camille was someone who commanded respect as both a great competitor and as a person. Rebecca and Camille had some tremendous battles over the years and she will be sadly missed. I would like to offer my condolences to Camille's family, friends and all at French Swimming."