British shot put athlete and title holder for World’s Strongest Man, Geoffrey Capes, has sadly passed away at 75. A statement from his family confirmed his death on 23rd October, spotlighting his achievements as Britain’s top shot-putter and a two-time strongest man in the world.
Capes’ peak years in sports were throughout the 1970s, during which he represented Britain over a period of 11 years. He made a feared contender in his field, shattering records and collecting accolades that amounted to the highest number of athletic caps won by any British player. Post his career in sports, Capes became a recognised figure in British households due to his presence on the well-known Superstars TV programme, reeling in a 10 million-strong audience at the show’s pinnacle. Success followed him even here as he secured victory in the prestigious World’s Strongest Man contest in 1983 and 1985.
Three times, Capes earned the title of UK shot put champion and scored a gold medal at the 1984 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, thanks to a record-breaking throw of 20.74 metres. Defending his title successfully, Capes won gold again four years later in Edmonton, Canada.
Capes also reigned in the European Indoor Championships, seizing gold in Gothenburg and Munich during 1984 and 1986 respectively, and earned a bronze in Rome’s European Championships in 1984. He honoured Britain with his representation in three Olympic Games, achieving a respectable sixth place at Montreal 1976 and fifth spot at Moscow 1980. His personal best throw of 21.68m, which he set in 1980, remained unbeaten as a British record until 2003.
The news of his demise has sent shockwaves throughout the world of athletics, with Britain’s Olympic winning athlete, Katharine Merry acknowledging him as “a real household name”, expressing deep sorrow over his passing. British Athletics also issued a statement paying tribute to the former shot putter and extending condolences to his family and friends.
The prominent strongman wasn’t only known for his physical strength but also held the unusual distinction of being a budgerigar breeder. He shared his love for these birds with the Guardian in 2003.
His interest in budgerigar breeding sparked back in 1969 while he was serving as a police officer and had to serve a warrant for fine non-payment. As he approached the concerned house, he noticed multiple bird cages inside, teeming with birds flaunting vibrant plumages. This sight piqued his curiosity.
Before carrying out his duty, he accepted the house owner’s invitation for a cup of tea and spent time learning about his bird-keeping. It was unfortunate that he had to inform the man of his impending arrest at the end of their conversation.
However, after sorting out the man’s legal proceedings, the owner gifted him six budgies. Following this, he equipped himself with all the necessary tools required, like a shed, breeding modules, and an aviary. Since then, he has been an active budgerigar breeder. – The Guardian.