Geoff Capes, a towering figure in British athletics and a two-time World’s Strongest Man, has died at the age of 75. Renowned for setting a British shot put record of 21.68 meters in 1980, Capes became one of the most recognized athletes of his time, excelling both in track and field and strength competitions.
His family confirmed the news in a statement, saying: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Geoffrey Capes on 23rd October. He was Britain’s finest shot putter and a two-time World’s Strongest Man.”
Capes had a stellar career, clinching two gold medals in shot put at the Commonwealth Games and the European Indoor Championships. He also represented Great Britain at three Olympic Games, with his highest finish being fifth at the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
Born in Lincolnshire, Capes became a dominant force in the Highland Games, winning the World Championship six times. His victories in the World’s Strongest Man contests in 1983 and 1985 further cemented his status as a legend in the world of strength sports.
Eddie Hall, a fellow British strongman and 2017 World’s Strongest Man champion, paid tribute, calling Capes “a true giant of the sport.” Hall added: “Geoff set the standard for athletes like me. His determination and grit showed the world what British strength could achieve. He will be remembered not just for his feats but for the inspiration he provided to so many.”
Standing at 6ft 5.5in and weighing 170kg during his prime, according to the Geoff Capes Foundation, Capes was a physical powerhouse. After retiring from competitive sports, he focused on coaching, mentoring young athletes, and even appearing on television.
While Carl Myerscough later threw a greater distance in 2003 with a mark of 21.92 meters, his result was not ratified, allowing Capes’ record to stand for many years.
Outside of sport, Capes had a passion for budgerigars, becoming president of the Budgerigar Society in 2008. He also served for a decade as a police officer in Cambridgeshire but resigned prior to the 1980 Olympics due to political pressures surrounding Britain’s stance on the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
British Athletics expressed their condolences following his death, saying: “The athletics community is saddened by the loss of one of its greats. Our thoughts are with Geoff Capes’ family and friends.” Team GB and fellow athletes, including 1984 Olympic javelin champion Tessa Sanderson, also shared their tributes, with Sanderson recalling Capes as “a giant both in stature and in heart.”
Reigning British shot put champion Scott Lincoln referred to Capes as “a role model, legend, and friend” who left a lasting legacy in British athletics. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe added that Capes was “a fierce competitor who led with distinction and brought crowds back to the sport.”
Capes is survived by his two children and grandchildren. His legacy, both in shot put and strength competitions, will endure as a shining example of British sporting greatness.
