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Geoff Capes Obituary**
Geoff Capes, widely regarded as Britain’s greatest shot putter, has passed away at the age of 75. Standing nearly 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing over 26 stone during his athletic prime, Capes was an imposing figure in the world of sports. He gained international acclaim not only for his record-breaking achievements in shot put but also for his charismatic presence in televised strongman competitions, where he was crowned World’s
Strongest Man twice and enjoyed considerable success in events.
Despite his remarkable career, Capes never achieved his dream of winning an Olympic medal, competing in three with his best finish being fifth place in 1980. However, his accolades are numerous, including Commonwealth gold medals in both 1974 and 1978, as well as two European indoor titles in 1974 and 1976. Over the course of his career, he represented
Great Britain a record 67 times from 1969 until his retirement from athletics in 1980, after which he shifted his focus to professional competitions. Capes set a lifetime best shot put distance of 21.68 meters in his final event, a national record that remains unbroken to this day.
Question 1: What notable achievements did Geoff Capes accomplish in his athletic career?
Geoff Capes was a record-breaking shot putter who won a Commonwealth gold medal in 1974 and 1978, twice claimed the European indoor title in 1974 and 1976, and represented his country on a record 67 occasions. He also achieved a lifetime best shot put distance of 21.68m, which remains a national record.
Question 2: How many times did Geoff Capes win the World’s Strongest Man competition?
Geoff Capes won the World’s Strongest Man competition twice during his career.
Question 3: Did Geoff Capes ever win an Olympic medal?
No, Geoff Capes never won an Olympic medal despite competing in three Olympic Games, with his best finish being fifth place in 1980.
Question 4: At what height and weight did Geoff Capes compete during his athletic prime?
Geoff Capes stood close to 6ft 6in and weighed more than 26st during his athletic prime.
Question 5: When did Geoff Capes retire from athletics, and what did he focus on afterward?
Geoff Capes retired from athletics in 1980 and chose to concentrate on paid competition, particularly in televised strongman events.