In a devastating loss to the sports world, renowned Canadian pole vaulter Shawn Barber, aged 29, has succumbed to medical complications at his residence in Kingwood, Texas. The tragic news was confirmed by his agent, Paul Doyle, who expressed deep sorrow over the untimely death of the 2015 world champion. Barber, born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, but with strong ties to Canada through his father, George, had been grappling with health issues, and the cause of his death is yet to be determined.
Shawn Barber, who is not just a phenomenal athlete but also recognized for his compassionate nature, leaves a legacy that extends beyond his extraordinary achievements. The Canadian record holder in the men’s pole vault, Barber reached a height of 6.00m in January 2016 in Reno, Nevada. His crowning moment came in 2015 when he clinched the world championships in Beijing, China, with an impressive mark of 5.90m. Despite his athletic prowess, those who knew him emphasized Barber’s good-hearted personality and his selflessness in putting others ahead of himself.
Barber’s remarkable career included victories such as the 2015 NCAA outdoor title for the University of Akron and consecutive indoor titles that same season. In 2016, he represented Canada at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, making it to the pole vault final, where he competed against the world’s best. His surviving family members—his mother, Ann; father, George; and brother, David—mourn the loss of an athletic icon and a beloved son and brother. The sports community, both in Canada and globally, commemorates Shawn Barber’s indelible contributions to pole vaulting and mourns the loss of a remarkable talent.
Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright
