Swimming: Testimonial dinner for iconic coach Laing

Champion swimming coach Duncan Laing says he will attend his testimonial dinner in Dunedin tomorrow despite his health problems.

Laing, 75, confirmed that he was diagnosed with a brain tumour three weeks ago and is scheduled to undergo surgery within a week.

That had raised doubts whether he would be able to attend the sold-out occasion to recognise his contribution to swimming for nearly 50 years.

"I've had a lot of people ringing up to wish me well and say they were coming for the weekend. I'll just take it easy, sit back and relax," he told the Otago Daily Times.

Laing said the tumour was detected after he complained of dizziness.

"I was driving the car one day and things just didn't feel right. I didn't feel safe behind the wheel," he said.

A scan revealed a small tumour at the back left side of his brain.

"The doctor has done plenty of these operations and reckons he can just pluck it out. Once it's done there is still a bit of time left in me."

Laing has had several health problems in recent months, including having a melanoma removed from his leg in July.

The retiring Laing, who guided Danyon Loader to a double gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, will be honoured before at least 540 people with a "This Is Your Life" type of occasion and dinner.

Laing was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in this year's Queen's Birthday honours. He had been awarded an OBE earlier.

- NZPA