In brief
The world mourns the loss of Geoff Capes, whose extraordinary feats and unique hobbies endeared him to many.
Geoff Capes, a towering figure from the English countryside renowned for his impressive strength and unique passion for bird breeding, passed away on October 23 in Lincoln, England, at 75 years old. His son, Lewis Capes, confirmed the news, although no cause of death was provided. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 365 pounds, Capes was a larger-than-life athlete with an imposing presence. He famously consumed a caloric load that included seven pints of milk, two loaves of bread, a dozen eggs, and a leg of lamb daily, fueling his remarkable exploits in the world of strongman competitions. Capes's athletic prowess was evident as he accomplished feats like pulling 12-ton trucks, flipping cars, and tearing London phone books in half. His remarkable speed also astonished onlookers; he could sprint 200 meters in under 25 seconds, belying his hulking physique. Colin Bryce, a commentator for the World’s Strongest Man competition, described Capes as an "absolutely terrifying athlete," noting that he was "not just a big lump." Capes twice claimed the title of World’s Strongest Man in 1983 and 1985 and triumphed in the U.K. Truck-Pulling Championship in 1986. He was also a six-time champion of the World Highland Games, where traditional Scottish contests feature competitors donning kilts while throwing heavy objects. While celebrated for his great strength, Capes had a softer side, finding joy in tending to his beloved parakeets. This passion for bird breeding offered a peaceful escape from his explosive athletic performances and showcased the diverse interests that defined his life. His contributions to sports and his gentle demeanor will be cherished by fans and peers alike.