In the early hours of Monday, April 14, the Cuban sports community mourned the passing of Leandro Félix Civil Jarvis, a prominent athlete and coach, at the age of 77 in Havana. Renowned for his contributions to Cuban sports, he was an international medalist and played a pivotal role in shaping generations of middle-distance runners, including Ana Fidelia Quirós and Roberto Hernández.
The National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (INDER) confirmed the sad news on their official Facebook page, stating, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Cuban sports legend Leandro Félix Civil Jarvis. In addition to his achievements as a Pan-American and Central Caribbean medalist runner, he left behind a remarkable legacy as a coach."
A Journey from Baseball to Track and Field Excellence
Born on March 31, 1948, in Puerto Padre, Las Tunas, Leandro Civil initially engaged in baseball and basketball. It wasn't until 1969 that he ventured into track and field, a decision that would propel him to regional stardom. That same year, after being selected for the national preselection, he secured a silver medal in the 800 meters at the Memorial Brunet in Cienfuegos.
Despite undergoing surgery for tendinitis, Civil established himself as Cuba's leading figure in his field for a decade, until Alberto Juantorena, the two-time Olympic champion, emerged on the scene.
His career peaked at the 1974 Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, where he clinched the gold medal and set a regional record with a time of 1:48.43 minutes. The following year, he earned a silver medal at the 1975 Pan American Games in Mexico City, repeating the same time. In 1978, he captured bronze at the Central American Games in Medellín, Colombia.
Legacy as a Mentor and Coach
After retiring from competition, Leandro Civil embarked on a successful coaching career both in Cuba and abroad. He was instrumental in training double world champion and Olympic medalist Ana Fidelia Quirós, as well as sprinter Roberto Hernández.
Sports authorities confirmed that his body is being laid to rest at the Alamar funeral home, with the burial scheduled for Monday at 3:00 p.m. at the Colón Cemetery.
Expressions of grief and admiration have poured in from athletes, coaches, specialized media, and citizens on social media, lamenting the loss of a vital figure in Cuban sports. The DeporCuba profile described him as a man "integral, humble, and committed to his country."
Legacy and Impact of Leandro Civil Jarvis
Who was Leandro Félix Civil Jarvis?
Leandro Félix Civil Jarvis was a distinguished Cuban athlete and coach known for his achievements in middle-distance running and his role in training successful athletes like Ana Fidelia Quirós and Roberto Hernández.
What were some of Leandro Civil's major accomplishments?
Leandro Civil secured a gold medal at the 1974 Central American and Caribbean Games and a silver medal at the 1975 Pan American Games. He was also a significant figure in Cuban sports as a coach after retiring from competition.
How did the Cuban sports community react to his passing?
The Cuban sports community expressed profound sorrow and respect for Leandro Civil through social media, acknowledging his integral role and commitment to the nation's sports achievements.