The strongest British shot put record holder dies at 75, as Geoff Capes, a legendary figure in British athletics and two-time World’s Strongest Man, passed away on October 23, 2024. Capes, who set a British shot put record of 21.68 meters in 1980, was revered not only for his remarkable achievements in athletics but also for his inspiring presence in the strength community.
Capes’ family announced his passing in a statement, saying, “Britain’s finest shot putter and twice World’s Strongest Man.” His death marks the loss of one of Britain’s greatest athletes, whose legacy in strength sports and athletics has endured for decades.
Geoff Capes’ Athletic Achievements
Geoff Capes, the strongest British shot put record holder, enjoyed an illustrious career in athletics. Born in Lincolnshire, Capes’ record-breaking shot put throw of 21.68 meters, set in 1980, remains a testament to his strength and skill. Although another British shot putter, Carl Myerscough, threw 21.92 meters in 2003, Capes’ record still stands because Myerscough’s result was never ratified.
Capes competed in three Olympic Games, coming closest to a medal with a fifth-place finish at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. In addition to his Olympic appearances, Capes secured gold medals at both the Commonwealth Games and the European Indoor Championships, cementing his status as a dominant force in shot put.
Success Beyond Shot Put
The strongest British shot put record holder, Capes, was also a formidable competitor in other strength sports. He won the prestigious World’s Strongest Man competition twice, first in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 1983, and again in Cascais, Portugal, in 1985. His victories in the Highland Games, where he was a six-time champion, further solidified his status as one of the world’s strongest athletes.
Capes’ triumphs in strength sports helped popularize competitions like the World’s Strongest Man in the UK. He became a household name, inspiring future generations of athletes. Eddie Hall, the 2017 World’s Strongest Man, paid tribute to Capes, saying, “Not only was Geoff a two-time World’s Strongest Man and a record-breaking shot putter, but he was also a giant in heart and spirit.”
Post-Retirement Life
After retiring from competition, Geoff Capes remained involved in the world of athletics and strength sports. The strongest British shot put record holder transitioned into coaching, where he mentored aspiring athletes, helping them achieve their potential. His influence extended beyond athletics, as he appeared on reality television shows and continued to engage with the public.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Capes had a lesser-known passion: budgerigars. He was a renowned budgerigar enthusiast and even served as the president of the Budgerigar Society in 2008, showcasing his diverse interests outside of sports.
Tributes Pour In
The death of the strongest British shot put record holder at 75 has led to an outpouring of tributes from the world of athletics. British Athletics expressed their condolences, stating, “British Athletics are saddened to hear the news of former British shot putter, Geoff Capes’ passing. Our condolences go out to his family and friends at this time.”
Olympic javelin champion Tessa Sanderson described Capes as a “great person and a giant of an athlete,” while Scott Lincoln, the reigning British shot put champion, praised Capes for putting shot put “on the map in the UK.” Lincoln wrote on Instagram, “An icon, hero, legend, role model, friend, and all-around good guy. Will be sorely missed by not only me but so many around the athletics community.”
World Athletics president Lord Coe also paid tribute, saying, “Geoff’s passing is a sad moment for so many of us in both British and global athletics. He was a huge figure in British athletics and brought the crowds back to our sport.”
A Legacy That Will Endure
Geoff Capes, the strongest British shot put record holder, leaves behind a lasting legacy in both British athletics and the global strength community. His remarkable achievements as a shot putter, two-time World’s Strongest Man, and coach will continue to inspire future athletes. As a larger-than-life figure with a heart and spirit as strong as his physical prowess, Capes’ influence will be remembered for generations.
Capes is survived by his two children and grandchildren. His legacy as one of Britain’s finest athletes, as well as his contributions to the strength sports community, will continue to inspire admiration and respect.
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