News Editor
Geoff Capes, the British shot put record holder and two-time World’s Strongest Man, has passed away at the age of 75. His family announced his death on October 23, stating, “The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today. Britain’s finest shot putter and twice World’s Strongest Man.”
Capes set the British shot put record in 1980 with a distance of 21.68 meters. Throughout his illustrious career, he won gold medals in shot put at both the Commonwealth Games and the European Indoor Championships, and he represented Great Britain at the Olympics three times. His best Olympic performance came at the 1980 Games in Moscow, where he finished in fifth place.
Born in Lincolnshire, Capes also made a name for himself in the World Highland Games, securing six championships. He gained international fame for his victories in the World’s Strongest Man competition, winning the title in 1983 in Christchurch, New Zealand, and again in 1985 in Cascais, Portugal.
Fellow World’s Strongest Man winner Eddie Hall, who claimed the title in 2017, paid tribute to Capes, calling him a “true legend of strength.” Hall remarked, “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. He paved the way for athletes like me, showing that British grit and determination could conquer the world.”
Hall added, “Geoff was an inspiration to so many of us growing up, a man whose incredible achievements and character left a lasting mark on the strength community. His legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of strongmen and athletes around the world. Rest easy, big man. You’ll always be remembered as one of the greatest.”
