The athletics community has been rocked by the tragic news of former British middle-distance runner Robbie Fitzgibbon, who passed away at just 28 years old. Fitzgibbon, a talented and cherished member of the Brighton Phoenix Athletics Club, was widely admired for his skill, dedication, and infectious spirit. His sudden death on October 7 was confirmed by the club in an emotional statement, sparking an outpouring of tributes from the running world and beyond.\
A Cherished Athlete and Friend
Brighton Phoenix, the club Fitzgibbon had been a part of since the age of 12, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a man they described as “irreplaceable.” The heartfelt tribute, penned by club chair Mike Townley and vice chair Josh Guilmant, highlighted Robbie’s contribution not only as an athlete but as a friend and teammate.
“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,” the statement read. “Though Robbie will no longer run alongside us, his presence will continue to be felt in everything we do as a club. His contribution to Phoenix is enduring, living on through the countless memories we have shared.”
Rising Star in British Athletics
Robbie Fitzgibbon was a promising talent in the British athletics scene, having won the English Schools 1,500m title at 18. He later represented Great Britain at various international competitions, including the European Athletics Under-20 Championships in 2016, where he finished fifth in the 1,500m event. Fitzgibbon also competed in several Diamond League events, making his final international appearance at the 2019 European Indoor Championships in Glasgow.
Unfortunately, an ankle injury sustained after the event hampered his ability to return to top form. Despite this setback, Robbie remained deeply involved in the sport, shifting his focus to longer-distance races and team events within the Phoenix community.
A Legacy of Dedication and Kindness
In recent years, Fitzgibbon had transitioned from middle-distance track running to distance events, finding joy in cross-country and road races. His dedication and love for the sport were evident, as he continued to compete with Brighton Phoenix, even setting a leg record in the South Downs Way Relay this summer.
“He would always be the first to put his hand up for another race,” the club reminisced, describing his enthusiasm for team participation and camaraderie. Fitzgibbon’s sense of humour and kindness endeared him to all who knew him, making his loss even more deeply felt.
A Fight Against Mental Health Challenges
Robbie had faced his own battles in recent years, having been diagnosed with psychosis in 2022. Despite these challenges, he remained determined, training for the Brighton Marathon in 2024 to raise funds for the mental health charity Mind. In his place, his father Robin Fitzgibbon will now run the race next year, with Brighton Phoenix encouraging people to donate to Robbie’s chosen cause.
The death of Robbie Fitzgibbon has left a void in the hearts of his teammates, friends, and the wider athletics community. Tributes continue to pour in for a man who not only excelled in his sport but touched the lives of those around him with his warmth, humour, and unrelenting passion for running.
Remembering Robbie
Though his career was cut short, Robbie Fitzgibbon’s legacy will endure. His contribution to British athletics, and particularly to Brighton Phoenix, will not be forgotten. The club, and the many lives he impacted, will continue to honour his memory through the sport he loved.
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