Geoff Capes, Iconic Strongman and Bird Breeder, Passes Away at 75

Geoff Capes, renowned for his immense strength and surprising gentleness, passed away on October 23 in Lincoln, England, at the age of 75. Known for his impressive total of victories, including two titles in the World’s Strongest Man competition during the 1980s, Capes also captivated fans with his endearing hobby as a champion breeder of parakeets. The news of his death was confirmed by his son, Lewis Capes, although the cause was not disclosed.Standing a towering 6-foot-6 and weighing 365 pounds, Capes was an embodiment of strength, known for his extravagant diet that would shock the average eater. Consuming vast quantities of milk, bread, eggs, and meat fueled his astounding feats in strength competitions. He was noted for pulling 12-ton trucks uphill, flipping cars effortlessly, ripping phone books in half, and even tossing five-pound bricks with ease. His athleticism was underscored by a remarkable 200-meter sprint time of under 25 seconds, which left spectators in awe.Colin Bryce, a commentator for the World’s Strongest Man competitions, recalled Capes as more than just a brute force, describing him as "terrifyingly good" on the field, showcasing his grace and speed alongside his sheer power. His accomplishments included not just his two World’s Strongest Man titles in 1983 and 1985, but also a victory in the U.K. Truck-Pulling Championship in 1986 and six championships at the World Highland Games, where competitors engage in traditional Scottish sports.While Capes' feats of strength were legendary, it was his gentle passion for breeding parakeets that provided a glimpse into his softer side. Balancing his fierce competitor persona with this unexpected hobby made him a well-rounded figure in sports history, admired by fans for both his brawn and tenderness. His death marks the loss of a remarkable athlete who made an indelible mark on the world of strength competitions and animal breeding alike.