Canadian world champion pole vaulter has died at the age of 29. The young athlete had been experiencing different medical complications. His agent Paul Doyle has confirmed that he died on Wednesday at home in Kingswood, Texas.
The cause of death was not yet known but Doyle said “More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself.” He also mentioned, “It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age. He is survived by his mother, Ann; father, George; and brother, David.”
The Canadian athlete performed as a successful pole vaulter at the University of Akron. He won NCAA indoor titles not only in 2014 but also in 2015. Additionally, he achieved gold in the Pan-American Games as well as the NCAA outdoor championship in 2015.
Shawn reached the final of the Rio Olympics’ pole vault event in 2016. However, that was won by Brazil’s Thiago Braz. But Shawn added a great wave of momentum in this world championship.
Shawn performed his best vault in Reno, Nevada in January 2016 which was approximately six metres. His contribution will remain in the Canadian record with honor.