The track and field world is reeling from the sad news of Geoff Capes’ passing at 75. A true giant in every sense. Capes not only competed in three Olympic Games for Great Britain, but he also claimed two Commonwealth titles and twice earned the title of World’s Strongest Man. Capes’ athletic journey as a shot putter and strong man was a goldmine of achievements, with two wins at the European Indoor Championships also.
Geoff Capes wasn’t just known for his incredible athletic achievements—he became a household name due to his appearance on the popular Superstars TV program, which drew in 10 million viewers at its peak. After his track and field days, Capes took the world by storm, winning the World’s Strongest Man title in 1983 and again in 1985. His family announced the sad news of his passing on October 23, calling him “Britain’s finest shot putter and twice world’s strongest man.”
Despite his reputation as a strongman, Capes had a surprising passion for breeding budgerigars, a hobby he picked up while working as a policeman in 1969. He talked about how he developed an interest, in birds after a visit to a person’s house with bird cages. From Lincolnshire and being a six-time world champion in the Highland Games showed that he excelled in more, than one sport.
After Capes retired from his career he remained involved, in the world of track and field by mentoring athletes with his charismatic personality and diverse passions that left a lasting impression on those he encountered. However, hearing this heartbreaking news was unbelievable for track and field community.
Geoff Capes was the must-see track and field star of the ’70s and ’80s!
Track and field fans are sharing memories, reminding everyone that while Capes may no longer walk among us, his legacy will stand the test of time. One fan added, “Geoff Capes has passed away. he was a legendary strong man and at one time was never off our tv’s RIP” Well, Geoff Capes was one of nine children, came from humble beginnings, and became one of Britain’s most recognizable faces in the 1970s and 1980s. As a shot-putter, he dominated the sport and set a national record of 21.68m in 1980 that still stands today.
Capes was expected to win the gold in Moscow but ended up finishing fifth instead after coming in sixth at the Montreal Games in 1976. Following his disappointments Capes entered strongman competitions, he excelled in them by placing in the top three on six occasions and clinched the World’s Strongest Man titles in 1983 and 1985. Moreover, he also showcased his talent by winning six World Highland Games championships which truly exemplified his versatility and iconic status.
Another track and field fan added, “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 .. RIP Geoff …” One more fan added, “Geoff Capes has died at the age of 75. I reckon it’s one of those age divide things. For younger readers it may not resonate. For some of us, Capes was an ubiquitous character in our lives. Shot put champion of the 70s. World’s Strongest Man star of the 80s. Huge character. RIP.”
Geoff Capes worked hard to earn his reputation as a strongman by devoting five hours to rigorous weightlifting sessions where he lifted an impressive 120 tonnes every week—equivalent, to the weight of, around 18 double-decker buses! To keep his energy levels high, throughout each day he consumed an amount of food which included 2.7 kilograms of beef, around 680g of cottage cheese, 450 grams of butter, a box of cereal, two large loaves of bread, twelve eggs, a can of beans, two cans of pilchards. a glass of orange juice and seven glasses of milk. It’s remarkable to think that he ate almost four times as much as an average person does! It comes as no surprise that he excelled in competitions, with vigor and strength!
One more fan added, “There was a time where Geoff Capes was one of the UK’s most recognisable sportsmen, in two very unfashionable fields. Real character as well, will be greatly missed”One more added, “For a 70s kid like me he was a fixture on the Superstars TV programme. RIP Geoff.”
Geoff Capes’ legacy continues through his children, Lewis and Emma, both national shot put champions, and now through his grandchildren, Donovan and Lawson, who are carrying on the family tradition. His ability to apply strength at speed set him apart, and his technical expertise earned him the nickname “numbers,” as others would often follow his lead. Whether in athletics or everyday challenges, Capes’ drive to win remained a defining trait throughout his life and will be remembered forever by the Track and field community.
