Geoff Capes, former World's Strongest Man winner, dies

Geoff Capes, the former World's Strongest Man winner and British shot put record holder, has died.

Capes, who was 75, competed for Great Britain in the shot put at three Olympic Games, won two Commonwealth titles and twice won the World's Strongest Man competition.

British Athletics said on X that it was "saddened to hear the news" of his death, and a reported family statement said: "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."

Europes strongest man, shot putter Geoff Capes saves fuel by establishing a new world record in truck pulling, at the Crystal Palace Sports Centre
Image: Geoff Capes sets a new world record in truck pulling in 1983. Pic: PA

Born in Lincolnshire, Capes was just over 6ft 5in and weighed 170kg at his peak condition, according to the Geoff Capes website.

He won the World's Strongest Man title in 1983 and 1985.

Geoff Capes pictured in 2001.
Pic: PA
Image: Geoff Capes in 2001. Pic: PA

Following retirement from competitive sport, he continued to be involved in strength athletics as a referee, event promoter and coach.

Capes lived in Stoke Rochford, near Grantham, and had two children - who were also national shot put champions - and four grandchildren.