BRITISH middle-distance runner Robbie Fitzgibbon has died at the age of 28.
His tragic death was announced by his club, Brighton Phoenix, on Friday evening.
The team confirmed he had died on October 7 as they paid a heartfelt tribute.
A statement from chairman Mike Townley and vice chair Josh Guilmant said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most cherished athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon.
“A friend to many, and a source of motivation for all who had the privilege of knowing him, Robbie was the epitome of a runner’s runner, embodying everything we value at Phoenix.
“Though Robbie will no longer run alongside us, share his stories, or lift our spirits with his humour and kindness, his presence will continue to be felt in everything we do as a club.
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“His contribution to Phoenix is enduring, living on through the countless memories we have shared.”
Fitzgibbon had been a standout talent at junior level, winning the English schools 1500m title in 2014 and finishing fifth in the 1500m final at the European Athletics U20 Championships.
He finished 13th in the 1500m in the London Anniversary Games in 2017.
Fitzgibbon had originally joined Phoenix at the age of 12, and continued to represent Great Britain at international level, including several Diamond League events.
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The statement added: “In recent years, Robbie took a step back from the intense nature of track running moving from middle-distance to becoming a key member of our distance group, finding enjoyment again not just in racing cross country and road but being part of the team and wider Phoenix community.
“He would always be the first to put his hand up for another race.
“This summer, he was part of the South Downs Way Relay team, setting a leg record along the way, medalling in the County Cross Country Champs at Goodwood where he started his club running career and running Christmas day parkrun at Preston Park on a monumental hangover.
“Robbie gave so much to the club, and we know the club meant just as much to him. It is difficult to find the right words in moments like these.
“Robbie was not just an athlete to us; he was a friend, a team-mate, and an irreplaceable part of our Phoenix family.”
His final international appearance had come at the European Indoor Championships in Glasgow in 2019, where he suffered an ankle injury which prevented him from returning to the same level.
As recently as June, he had won the Bexhill 5km with a time of 15:13, and had been preparing to run the Brighton Marathon next year for charity Mind.
His father will run in his place to honour his memory after his passing.
The statement continued: “Robbie had been preparing to run the 2025 Brighton Marathon in aid of the charity Mind.
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“His dad Robin will now run in his place and, to honour his wishes, we invite those who are able to consider donating to his chosen cause in his memory.”
Donations can be made HERE.
Source: Athletics - thesun.co.uk
