Countdown
The IAAF is saddened to learn that the well-known British coach Ayo Falola died on Monday (14) at the age of 47 after a long battle with cancer.
Falola was the coach to many British international athletes, many of them sprinters, in the last two decades including: Shelayna Oskan-Clarke, Jo Mersh, Donna Fraser and Paralympian Danny Crates.
His death brought tributes from many athletes, including world marathon record-holder and IAAF Ambassador Paula Radcliffe.
“Such sad news. Thoughts with family and friends of Ayo Falola. A very special man who made everyone smile and will be greatly missed,” said Radcliffe.
London 2000 Olympic Games heptathlon gold medallist Denise Lewis commented: “That incredible laugh will live on in our hearts. God bless you Ayo… no more pain.”
Falola is survived by wife Sarah and their three sons.
The IAAF wishes to pass on its sincerest condolences to his family and many friends.
IAAF
