In brief
Geoff Capes, renowned for his incredible strength achievements and gentle passion for bird breeding, died on October 23 in Lincoln, leaving behind a legacy of sportsmanship and tenderness.
Geoff Capes, a titanic figure from the English landscape, has passed away at the age of 75. Best known for his remarkable prowess as a two-time World’s Strongest Man, Capes was not only a powerful athlete but also a devoted breeder of parakeets, an interest that revealed his softer side. He died on October 23 at a hospital in Lincoln, England, as confirmed by his son, Lewis Capes, although no cause of death was disclosed.Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 365 pounds, Capes was an iconic figure, known for his extraordinary diet that fueled his incredible athletic feats. His typical intake included seven pints of milk, two loaves of bread, a dozen eggs, and even a leg of lamb, supporting his ability to pull 12-ton trucks, flip cars, and tear phone books in half. Colin Bryce, a television commentator for the World’s Strongest Man competition, highlighted Capes’ unique prowess, noting, “He was not just a big lump,” emphasizing the vast talent that lay beneath his massive frame. Throughout his career, Capes claimed the World’s Strongest Man title in both 1983 and 1985, secured the U.K. Truck-Pulling Championship in 1986, and was a six-time champion at the World Highland Games, showcasing traditional Scottish sports where competitors don kilts while launching heavy objects. His talents extended beyond mere physicality; he was also a beloved figure known for his kind heart and gentle nature, particularly when it came to his avian companions.