KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Leader Mark Golding has hailed the late Stephen Francis as a towering figure in track and field, describing his death as a profound loss for Jamaica and the international athletics community.

Francis died late Saturday, a day after celebrating his 64th birthday.

READ: Stephen Francis, legendary Jamaican track coach, has died

In a social media post on Sunday, Golding said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Francis, affectionately known as “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, the co-founder and technical director of the MVP Track and Field Club, established the programme in September 1999 and spent more than two decades developing Jamaican talent into world-class champions.

Golding noted that Francis’ remarkable legacy is reflected in the achievements of MVP athletes, who captured more than 56 World Championship medals and 28 Olympic medals under his leadership.

“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 extended condolences to Francis’ family, the MVP Track and Field Club and the many athletes whose lives and careers were shaped by the celebrated coach.