The athletics world is in mourning following the tragic death of pole vault champion Shawn Barber. The 29-year-old Canadian athlete, who was the 2015 world champion, passed away on Wednesday in his home in Kirkwood, Texas. The exact cause of his death has not been revealed.
Shawn Barber was not only an incredible athlete but also a good-hearted person who always put others ahead of himself. This is why his untimely passing at such a young age is truly devastating. His agent, Paul Doyle, confirmed the sad news and expressed his sorrow over the loss.
Barber’s achievements in the world of pole vaulting were remarkable. He claimed gold at the 2015 Pan American Games, and just weeks later, he shocked the world by winning the world title in Beijing. In that competition, he beat out top contenders like Raphael Holzdeppe of Germany and Renaud Lavillenie of France.
One of Barber’s most impressive feats was his jump of 6.0 meters, which he achieved on January 15, 2016. This jump still stands as the Canadian record to this day. He also represented Canada in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, showcasing his talent on the world stage.
Barber’s passion for pole vaulting started at a young age. He began competing in the sport when he was just seven years old and quickly made a name for himself. His father, George, who was also his coach, played a significant role in his success. In fact, Barber held dual citizenship as his father was born in Kincardine, northwest of Toronto. It was his father’s influence that led him to compete for Canada.
In 2016, Barber faced a setback when he failed a drug test before the Rio Olympics. Traces of cocaine were found in his system, leading to the stripping of his national title. However, he was not suspended, as Athletics Canada deemed it a mistake and a learning experience. Barber expressed shock at the test results and revealed that the woman he was with had consumed cocaine.
Despite this controversy, Barber remained resilient. In 2017, he bravely came out as gay and proud, sharing his gratitude for the support he received from his parents and friends. His announcement was met with overwhelming support from fans and fellow athletes.
News of Barber’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the sports community. Fans and athletes alike have expressed their condolences and shared their memories of the talented vaulter. Former Australian discus thrower Benn Harradine described the news as terrible, while others simply called it tragic and heartbreaking.
The Mid-American Conference also paid tribute to Barber, acknowledging his accomplishments as a three-time NCAA champion, world champion, and Olympian pole vaulter. They extended their thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and the entire Akron Zips family.
Shawn Barber’s last competition was in 2020, leaving behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. He is survived by his father, mother Ann, and brother David. The athletics world will forever remember him as a remarkable athlete and a kind-hearted soul..
