Golding honours Stephen Francis as Jamaica mourns legendary MVP track coach

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Leader Mark Golding has described the death of Stephen Francis as a heavy blow to Jamaica and to international athletics, recognising the late coach as one of the discipline's most influential figures. Francis passed away late on Saturday, only a day after marking his 64th birthday.

In a social media message posted Sunday, Golding said he was deeply affected by the loss of Francis, whom many affectionately called "Franno".

"Jamaica and the world have lost a giant of track and field," he said. "He revolutionised our sport by proving that world-class athletes could be developed right here at home in Jamaica. Whereas previously it was thought necessary to send our talent abroad for their development into international athletes, Coach Francis totally changed that mindset and led the way by building excellence locally."

Francis served as co-founder and technical director of the MVP Track and Field Club. He set up the programme in September 1999 and, for more than twenty years, guided Jamaican competitors from local prospects into champions capable of succeeding on the global stage.

Golding said Francis's enduring impact is visible in the results produced by MVP athletes during his leadership, including more than 56 World Championship medals and 28 Olympic medals.

"Beyond the medals, 'Franno' gave our young athletes belief, discipline and opportunity. He showed that with vision, structure and hard work, coaching and athlete preparation right here in Jamaica sets the global standard," he said.

Golding also offered condolences to Francis's family, the MVP Track and Field Club, and the numerous athletes whose lives and careers were shaped by the celebrated coach.