Geoff Capes, a celebrated British athlete and two-time World’s Strongest Man, has died at the age of 75. Known for his impressive shot put career, Capes represented Great Britain at three Olympic Games: Munich in 1972, Montreal in 1976, and Moscow in 1980.
He still holds the national shot put record of 21.68 meters, set in 1980.
Capes was born in Lincolnshire and rose to fame not only as an Olympic competitor but also as a dominant force in strongman events.
After achieving significant success in shot put—where he won gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and European Indoor Championships—Capes shifted his focus to the World’s Strongest Man competitions.
He claimed the title in 1983 and again in 1985, solidifying his legacy in the world of strength sports.
A family statement confirmed his passing on October 23, noting him as “Britain’s finest shot-putter and twice World’s Strongest Man.”
READ ALSO: Tarzan Star Ron Ely Passes Away at 86
His accomplishments extended beyond athletics; he became a six-time world champion in the Highland Games and was involved in various roles within the shot put community as a referee, coach, and event promoter after his retirement.
Capes’s impact on the sport was significant, and his legacy continues through his children, Lewis and Emma, both national shot put champions, as well as his grandchildren, Donovan and Lawson, who also excel in the sport.
Beyond athletics, Capes was recognized for his success in breeding budgerigars, showcasing his diverse interests.
