BRITISH middle distance runner Robbie Fitzgibbon has died aged 28.
His tragic death was announced by his club Brighton Phoenix on Friday night.
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Robbie Fitzgibbon has died aged 28 Credit: Getty
The team confirmed he had died on October 7 as they paid heartfelt tributes.
A statement from president Mike Townley and vice president Josh Guilmant read: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most respected athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon.
“A friend to many and a source of motivation to all who had the privilege of knowing him, Robbie was the epitome of a runner’s runner, embodying everything we value in Phoenix.
“Although Robbie will no longer be running alongside us, sharing his stories or lifting our spirits with his humor and kindness, his presence will continue to be felt in everything we do as a club.
“His contribution to Phoenix is lasting, living on through the countless memories we shared.”
Fitzgibbon has been an outstanding talent at junior level, winning the 2014 English Schools 1500m title and finishing fifth in the 1500m final at the European U20 Athletics Championships.
Finished 13th in the 1500m at the 2017 London Jubilee Games.
Fitzgibbon originally joined the Phoenix aged 12 and went on to represent Great Britain at international level, including several Diamond League events.
The statement added: “In recent years, Robbie has taken a step back from the intense nature of track running, moving away from the middle tracks and becoming a key member of our distance group, rediscovering his enjoyment not only in cross country and road racing, but as part of the team and the greater Phoenix community.
“He would always be the first to raise his hand for another race.
“He was part of the South Downs Way Relay team this summer, setting a record along the way, winning a medal at the County Cross Country Champs at Goodwood where he started his club running career and ran the Preston Park Christmas parkrun on the monumental hangover course.
“Robbie gave so much to the club, and we know the club meant just as much to him. It’s hard to find the right words at times like this.
“Robbie wasn’t just an athlete to us; he was a friend, a teammate and an irreplaceable part of our Phoenix family.”
His last international appearance came at the 2019 European Indoor Championships in Glasgow, where he suffered an ankle injury that prevented him from returning to the same level.
Back in June he won the Bexhill 5km in 15:13 and was preparing to run the Brighton Marathon next year for charity Mind.
His father will run in his place to honor his memory after his death.
The statement continued: “Robbie was preparing to run the 2025 Brighton Marathon in aid of the charity Mind.
“His dad Robin will now run in his place and, to respect his wishes, we are asking those who are able to please consider making a donation to his chosen cause in his memory.”
Donations can be made HERE.
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