Bengaluru: Seasoned athletics coach Ramakrishnan Gandhi, who was employed with the Sports Authority of India, South Centre, passed away at his residence early on Sunday.
Gandhi, 55, who has helped produce Olympians including long distance walkers Gurmeet Singh and Baljinder Singh, breathed his last due a fatal heart attack. Gandhi, in the past was also associated with the Indian hockey team.
After complaining of unease, Gandhi collapsed around 6 am and despite being rushed to NIMHANS, was declared dead on arrival. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter.
The outpouring of support and anguish over the news only acts as testament to how highly he was regarded by his peers and wards.
Long distance walker and 2012 London Olympian Irfan Kolothum Thodi, who trained under Gandhi on Saturday, could barely hide his shock over the news.
“I was shocked when I heard the news. I couldn’t believe it. I had just seen him happy and smiling yesterday. It’s extremely upsetting,” said Irfan.
“I have been under him for three-four months now, preparing for the World Championships. He was a friendly man, I would even say number one coach. He would let his wards be free mentally, it was a liberating way to train,” he added.
Gurmeet too could barely hide his anguish.
“I've been training under him since 2010. I am yet to find a coach like him. He knew how to motivate me. I used to trust him a lot. We have long recovery sessions on Saturday. He was there with me yesterday. I can't believe that he's no more,” he revealed.
Fellow SAI coach Dr. Lakshmeesha also had kind words. “He was a highly committed coach. He worked very hard, never negative about anything. He had been coaching in Bengaluru for the last 14 years and had four years of service left. He was a dear friend. It’s a great loss.”
