Pope John Paul II was very fit at an early age since he practiced athletics, did a lot of skiing and hiking in the mountains as well. He was interested in sports all his life. He eagerly received sportsmen from all over the world during audiences and was an advocate of modern upbringing through sports. Even when he suffered he did not give up going for long walks.
John Paul II passed away on Saturday, April 2, at 9.37 in the evening. On Friday, April 8, over 5 milion people from all corners of our globe will take part in the funeral rites in the Vatican. About 200 heads of state and royalty members are expected to come, including three US presidents: George Bush Senior, George Bush Jr. and Bill Clinton.