Legendary Kiwi running coach Arch Jelley was celebrated today, as he turned 100.
Jelley guided the likes of Olympic legends Sir John Walker, Dick Quax and Rod Dixon over his six-decade career, responsible for numerous medals and world records.
And despite the centenarian usually ducking from the limelight, this occasion was all about him.
His birthday cake was almost as big as his achievements.
Friends and family travelled from far and wide today to celebrate with Jelley, who helped so many Kiwis achieve greatness, but remains humble about his own milestone.
"I just feel the same as always, no special feeling," he told Newshub.
Jelley was born in Dunedin in 1922, served in World War II and had a lengthy teaching career. He started coaching seriously in the 1960s.
Walker, his most famous pupil, won 1500m gold at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, and set world records over the mile and 2000 metres.
Jelley also coached Quax and Dixon to Olympic medals, and puts his success down to listening.
"I wasn't an authoritative coach, but i coached each person as an individual really," he said.
Dixon says Jelley's influence still looms large over New Zeland track and field.
"His contribution and his writings - and his philosophy - has been very very impactful and a lot of other coaches have learned from that."
But despite all his achievements, the birthday boy wasn’t too sure about the celebrations.
"Well, I don't get too excited about many things, but i do appreciate everybody coming and seeing a bunch of my old friends," said Jelley.
Today was about his laps around the sun, instead of laps around a track.
