Remembering Geoff Capes: A Legend of Strength and Sport

The athletics world is mourning the loss of Geoff Capes, the iconic British shot put record holder and two-time World’s Strongest Man, who has passed away at the age of 75. His legacy as one of the greatest athletes in British history is marked by extraordinary achievements and a lasting impact on the strength community.

 A Record-Breaking Career

Born in Lincolnshire, Capes set the British shot put record in 1980 with an impressive throw of 21.68 meters, showcasing his incredible talent and strength. Throughout his illustrious career, he excelled in shot put, claiming gold medals at both the Commonwealth Games and the European Indoor Championships. A three-time Olympian, Capes came closest to an Olympic medal with a fifth-place finish in the 1980 Moscow Games.

His athletic prowess extended beyond shot put; he was also a six-time champion at the World Highland Games. However, it was his victories in the World’s Strongest Man competition that made him a household name, winning titles in 1983 and 1985.

 Tributes from the Athletics Community

In the wake of his passing, many athletes and fans have paid tribute to Capes. Eddie Hall, the 2017 World’s Strongest Man, described him as a “true legend of strength,” noting that Capes was not just a champion but also a “giant in heart and spirit.”

Scott Lincoln, the reigning British shot put champion, highlighted Capes’ role in bringing prominence to the sport in the UK. On social media, he referred to Capes as an “icon, hero, legend, role model, friend, and all-around good guy.

 Life Beyond Competition

After retiring from professional sports, Capes dedicated himself to coaching, guiding aspiring athletes as they sought to follow in his footsteps. He also ventured into television, appearing on two reality shows, further solidifying his status as a beloved public figure.

Capes lived in the quiet village of Stoke Rochford, where he raised two children and enjoyed time with his grandchildren. Earlier in life, he served as a policeman in Cambridgeshire for a decade, a career he relinquished before the 1980 Olympics due to political pressures regarding a boycott.

 A Passion for Birds

Outside of athletics, Capes had a unique passion for budgerigars, even serving as president of the Budgerigar Society in 2008. This lesser-known aspect of his life adds depth to his character, revealing a man who embraced both competition and compassion.

 A Lasting Legacy

The passing of Geoff Capes is a profound loss for both British and global athletics. World Athletics president Lord Coe remarked on the sadness surrounding his departure, emphasizing Capes’ significant contributions to the sport. He was known for his fierce independence and competitiveness, yet he always maintained a protective stance over the teams he led.

British Athletics released a heartfelt statement expressing condolences to Capes’ family and friends. As we remember Geoff Capes, we celebrate a man whose remarkable achievements, both in and out of the arena, will continue to inspire future generations of athletes. Rest easy, Geoff. Your legacy will never be forgotten.