Tribute to John Hawes (1951-2026)

UIPM has joined the Canadian and international Modern Pentathlon communities in mourning the passing of John Hawes, a two-time Olympian who dedicated more than four decades to the sport as an athlete, coach and mentor.

Hawes represented Canada in swimming at the Munich 1972 Olympic Games before making a remarkable transition to Modern Pentathlon and competing in both the individual and team events at his home Olympic Games in Montreal in 1976.

He went on to become a respected figure within Canadian Pentathlon, helping athletes progress from their earliest experiences in the sport through to the highest level of international competition. Most notably he trained Melanie McCann out of the capital city Ottawa across two Olympic cycles, London 2012 and Rio 2016, where she finished 11th and 15th respectively. 

“John devoted his life to Modern Pentathlon, first as an accomplished athlete and later as a coach, leader and trusted mentor, whose influence reached far beyond Canada’s borders,” McCann wrote.

She added that John Hawes was known for his calm leadership, generosity and sense of humour. He was a team player who shared his knowledge widely with coaches, officials and athletes across the international community.

UIPM President Rob Stull OLY said in the wake of his recent passing: “I knew John Hawes as a great man of commitment, passion and eternal good humor. A kind man who I am honored to have known as a friend.”

UIPM extends its deepest condolences to John’s family, friends and everyone within Pentathlon Canada and the wider sporting community whose lives he touched.

His contribution to Modern Pentathlon, and the values he brought to the sport throughout a lifetime of service, will be warmly remembered.