Sri Lanka, Nov. 16 -- The Athletics Association of Sri Lanka (AASL) says the passing of renowned athletic coach Yogananda Wijesundera will be difficult to fill.

"It is with profound sadness that we note the passing away of our beloved colleague fondly known as Yoga. Yoga has over the years done yeoman service for the development of Sri Lanka Athletics and its athletes. His absence with create a significant void in the field not easily replaceable," the president and members of the general committee of AASL said in a statement.

Former Sri Lanka Olympic athlete Tilaka Jinadasa fondly remembered her coach in a moving tribute posted on Facebook.

Attributing her South Asian Games gold medal to Wijesundara, Jinadasa said: "Sir, you guided me...