08/23/2026
It is with heavy hearts that Pentathlon Canada shares the passing of John Hawes
It is with heavy hearts that Pentathlon Canada shares the passing of John Hawes—Olympian, coach, mentor, and a cherished member of the Canadian and international modern pentathlon community. For more than 45 years, 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. A standout backstroke and freestyle specialist at McGill University, John represented Canada in swimming at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games before competing for Canada four years later at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games in modern pentathlon, participating in both the individual and team events. Throughout his career, he embodied excellence, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to high performance.
John was recognized internationally for his calm leadership, integrity, and generosity. Fiercely competitive yet deeply humble, he brought innovation, structure, and a remarkable sense of humour to every team he led. He guided athletes from their first experiences in the sport to Olympic competition, while also sharing his knowledge freely with coaches, officials, and competitors around the world. Whether advancing high-performance sport with Pentathlon Canada or inspiring young athletes and triathletes through the ROCS Swim Club in Ottawa, John believed in the transformative power of sport at every level.
John's legacy will endure through the countless athletes, coaches, and colleagues whose lives he touched, as well as through the standards, programs, and culture of excellence he helped build within modern pentathlon. Above all, he will be remembered for his loyalty, humility, and integrity—qualities that earned him the admiration and friendship of the international sporting community.
Our deepest condolences are with John's family, friends, teammates, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. In honour of John's lifelong commitment to the sport, the family has invited those wishing to recognize his memory to consider making a donation to Pentathlon Canada to help inspire and support the next generation of Canadian pentathletes. information: https://www.pentathloncanada.ca/support/
His legacy will continue to guide our community for many years to come.
Tribute by Melanie McCann
2012 & 2016 Canadian Olympian
