Canadian Pole Vault Champion Shawn Barber Passes Away at 29
Published By: Sports Desk
Last Updated: January 19, 2024, 03:30 IST
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Shawn Barber, Canadian Pole Vault Champion, Passes Away at 29
Shawn Barber, the Canadian record holder and 2015 world champion in pole vault, tragically passed away at the young age of 29.
Barber’s agent, Paul Doyle, confirmed to Reuters that he died on Wednesday at his home in Kirkwood, Texas, due to medical complications.
“More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person who always put others ahead of himself,” said Doyle on Thursday. “It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age.”
Barber achieved gold at the 2015 Pan American Games and, a few weeks later, shocked the world by winning the world title in Beijing, defeating silver medallist Raphael Holzdeppe of Germany and favorite Renaud Lavillenie, who won bronze.
His best jump of 6.0 meters, set on January 15, 2016, is still the Canadian record. He also represented Canada at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Barber’s journey in pole vault began at the age of seven when he shattered the U.S. high school record by more than a foot. He continued to excel, winning back-to-back NCAA indoor titles for the University of Akron in 2014 and 2015, as well as the 2015 NCAA outdoor title.
As the son of his coach George, who was born in Kincardine, northwest of Toronto, Barber held dual citizenship. When he was initially selected to represent Canada, he chose to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Barber is survived by his father George, mother Ann, and brother David.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Reuters)
In Memory of Shawn Barber
Shawn Barber, the exceptional Canadian pole vaulter and 2015 world champion, has tragically passed away at the tender age of 29. The news of his untimely demise has left the sports world in shock and mourning.
Barber’s agent, Paul Doyle, confirmed to Reuters that the talented athlete passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Kirkwood, Texas. The cause of his death is attributed to medical complications, although further details have not been disclosed.
Described as more than just an incredible athlete, Barber was known for his selflessness and kind-hearted nature. Doyle expressed his grief, stating, “It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age. Shawn always put others ahead of himself, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.”
Barber’s remarkable achievements in the world of pole vaulting are a testament to his talent and dedication. In 2015, he claimed the gold medal at the Pan American Games and followed it up with a stunning victory in Beijing, where he defeated renowned athletes such as Raphael Holzdeppe and Renaud Lavillenie to become the world champion.
With a personal best jump of 6.0 meters, set on January 15, 2016, Barber still holds the Canadian record for pole vaulting. He also proudly represented Canada at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, showcasing his skills on the global stage.
Barber’s passion for pole vaulting began at a young age. He made his mark early on, shattering the U.S. high school record by more than a foot. His talent continued to flourish, leading him to win consecutive NCAA indoor titles for the University of Akron in 2014 and 2015, as well as the 2015 NCAA outdoor title.
Born into a family deeply involved in the sport, Barber held dual citizenship as his father, George, was his coach. In honor of his father’s Canadian heritage, Barber proudly chose to compete for Canada, following in his dad’s footsteps.
Shawn Barber leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by the sporting community. He is survived by his father George, mother Ann, and brother David. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his incredible talent and spirit.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Reuters)
Author: Sports Desk
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