In a tragic turn of events, Welsh Olympian Shaun Pickering has died at the age of 61, know his cause of death and age
Pickering, who made a name for himself as a shot put athlete, represented Wales during the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, where he won a bronze medal.
His athletic journey also took him to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, where he finished 27th. Here is more you need to know about Shaun Pickering’s journey.
British Olympian Shaun Pickering cause of death, obituary, age, bio, record, stats
Shaun Pickering’s impact on the field was undeniable, and his shot put throw of 20.45 meters in 1997 still stands as a Welsh record, placing him as the sixth-best shot put athlete across the United Kingdom. In addition to his shot put prowess, Pickering also held the Welsh record for hammer throw, with an impressive best distance of 68.84 meters. No cause of death has been given for the 61 year old who passed away.
Rest in Peace Shaun Pickering ๐โค๏ธ pic.twitter.com/eNkZMgZ3x8
— Throwers Universe (@ThrowersUni) May 11, 2023
After retiring from his athletic career, Pickering continued to contribute to the world of sports as UK Athletic’s national event coach for heavy throws. His knowledge, expertise, and dedication to the sport made him a pillar of the athletics community, earning him the respect and admiration of fellow athletes and colleagues alike.
Athletics community mourns the loss of Shaun Pickering
The passing of Shaun Pickering has left a void in the hearts of many, with tributes pouring in from all corners. Greg Rutherford, Team GB’s long jump gold medallist, took to Instagram to express his grief, saying, “Incredibly sad news to wake up to. Shaun was a really good man and a pillar of the athletics community. He will be deeply missed.”
Welsh Athletics also paid homage to Pickering, stating, “Everyone at Welsh Athletics is sad to hear the news that ‘Hall of Fame’ inductee, multiple Welsh Champion, and record holder Shaun Pickering has passed away. Our thoughts are with Shaun’s friends and family at this sad time.”
Shaun empowered athletes through the Ron Pickering memorial fund
Shaun Pickering’s impact extended beyond his own achievements. He played an instrumental role in the development of aspiring British athletes by dedicating his efforts to the Ron Pickering Memorial Fund, a charity established in memory of his late father, BBC commentator Ron Pickering, and his mother, former British Olympian Jean.
The fund aims to support and empower young athletes in their pursuit of sporting excellence. The charity issued a heartfelt tribute, saying, “It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing today of our beloved Shaun Pickering. Shaun did so much for athletics and to carry on the amazing legacy of his parents Ron and Jean. All our hearts go out to Shaunโs family and friends at this dreadfully sad time.”
British Athletics mourns the loss of Shaun Pickering
British Athletics also expressed their sorrow, emphasizing Shaun’s passion for the sport and his unwavering support for athletes. They stated, “Everyone at British Athletics is so saddened to hear this news today. Shaun loved the sport passionately and cared deeply for athletes and his many friends across the sport. His work to continue the success of the Run for Ron Fund supported so many athletes. RIP Shaun.”
Shaun Pickering leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. His achievements on the field, his dedication to coaching, and his contributions to the growth of British athletics have made an indelible mark. The athletics community mourns the loss of a true champion, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to reach for greatness.
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