Former World's Strongest Man, Three-Time Olympian Dead At 75

10/24/2024 01:10 PM

A world-famous Olympian and two-time world's strongest man has died at the age of 75.

Geoff Capes, who competed in three Olympic games and holds the British record in the shotput, excelled in various regional, continental and global events throughout his career.

Many fans knew him from his television appearances in the UK, including one show where he competed against other British athletes across various sports called "Superstars." The show also aired in the United States, featuring athletes from various disciplines.

He appeared in various television commercials and even had a video game made about him where players could pull a truck or play tug-of-war.

Capes was named the World's Strongest Man in both 1983 and 1985, and he finished second in two other years. During his strongman competition career, he was in the top four of the World's Strongest Man event for seven consecutive years.

He was named Europe's strongest man on three occasions, and competed in the Munich, Montreal and Moscow Olympics.

Capes was a police officer for 10 years, holding the job while competing in various sports. He resigned from the police after circumventing Britain's call for a boycott of the Moscow games, where he finished fifth.

He was a multi sport athlete in his youth as well, competing in basketball and soccer as well as track and field.

Capes is survived by his two children, both of whom were athletes. His daughter Emma won a bronze medal in the shot put at the youth Olympics, and his son Lewis played for the London Monarchs in the World League of American Football, later known as NFL Europe.

Rest in peace to Geoff Capes, and we send condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.