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NACAC Athletics and indeed the world of athletics has lost an icon with the passing today of Amadeo Francis of both Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Originally from the Virgin Islands, Amadeo made Puerto Rico his home and represented the latter in a number of competitions in his young years, including the Pan American Games and the Olympics.

Born 22 October 1931, Amadeo represented Puerto in the 400mH at the Summer Olympics of 1948 in London, UK, and again in 1952 in Helsinki, Finland. Interestingly, these were the Olympics where Jamaica won its first sets of Olympic gold medals.

Amadeo rose to the presidency of NACAC (now NACAC Athletics) for some 20 years and was instrumental in the establishment of the Pan American Athletics Commission, serving the quadrennial Pan American Games.

Amadeo’s contribution to the development of athletics in the Americas remains unchallenged. He worked assiduously with CONSUDATLE’s long serving President, Gesta de Melo of Brazil and ensured that support was given to the innovative Pan American Junior Athletics Championships, the brainchild of Canada’s Cecil Smith, to render the biennial event sustainable.

An economist of note, Amadeo held many positions in the government structure of Puerto Rico, always distinguished in his service.

NACAC Athletics has extended condolences to Amadeo’s family and to all those who would have benefitted from his administrative capabilities in our sport.

May he rest in Peace

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