Geoff Capes, British Shot Put Record Holder and Two-Time World’s Strongest Man, Dies at 75
British shot put record holder and two-time World’s Strongest Man champion Geoff Capes has passed away at the age of 75. The iconic athlete, who set the British record for the furthest shot put throw with a distance of 21.68 meters in 1980, died in Lincoln on 23 October 2024.
In a statement, his family expressed their sadness, saying: “The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today, 23rd October. Britain’s finest shot putter and twice world’s strongest man.”
Geoff Capes, a celebrated figure in British sports, was widely known not only for his achievements in athletics but also for his strength and charisma. Capes earned a place in the hearts of many as a two-time World’s Strongest Man champion and a household name in British sport during the 1970s and 1980s.
Tributes have poured in across social media, with fans and admirers sharing their memories and condolences. One fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “So sad to hear the news that Geoff Capes passed away this morning in Lincoln aged 75. A shot put gold medalist and World’s Strongest Man on more than one occasion. A real household name…”
Another fan reminisced: “Geoff Capes was a lovely man, it’s sad to hear of his passing. I watched him as a young man/boy. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends, we’ll miss you, Geoff.”
A third tribute read simply: “Another sporting hero from our youth leaves us.”
Geoff Capes’s legacy as one of Britain’s finest athletes will be remembered for generations, both for his remarkable strength and his contributions to British sports. His achievements in the field of shot put and strength competitions remain unmatched in the UK, and his influence continues to inspire young athletes.
