Shawn Barber, gay Olympian and world champion pole vaulter, dies aged 29
World champion pole vaulter Shawn Barber has tragically passed away at the age of 29. According to a report from The Associated Press, the openly gay athlete died on Wednesday (17 January) at his home in Kingswood, Texas.
In a statement to the publication, Barber’s agent, Paul Doyle, confirmed that he had been dealing with some health issues before succumbing to medical complications. “More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself,” he said. “It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age.” The University of Akron, Barber’s alma mater, echoed similar sentiments in their own statement, describing him as a “well-liked teammate and competitor.” During his sports career, the Canadian athlete made massive waves within the Track & Field sphere, earning an array of NCAA pole vault titles during his collegiate years.
In 2015, he won the gold medal at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing, China and the Pan American Games, respectively. His upward trajectory within the sports world didn’t stop there.
The following year, Barber participated in the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro, where he landed in 10th place. Lastly, the beloved talent holds the Canadian record for the longest vault with 6.00m.
