Former Great Britain athlete dies aged 28

A talented athlete from Great Britain, Robbie Fitzgibbon, has tragically passed away at the young age of 28. His running club, Brighton Phoenix, announced the sad news, highlighting Robbie's impressive career as a middle-distance runner. He represented Great Britain in numerous international competitions, showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport. The club described him as 'one of our most cherished athletes,' emphasizing the impact he had on those around him. They stated that he was 'a friend to many, and a source of motivation for all who had the privilege of knowing him. ' Robbie was not just a remarkable athlete; he was also a person who inspired others with his passion for running. The club further noted, 'Robbie was the epitome of a runner’s runner, embodying everything we value at Phoenix. ' Robbie began his journey with Brighton Phoenix as a junior athlete. Through his relentless hard work and determination, he rose to become a senior international athlete for Great Britain. In 2019, he competed in the senior indoor European Championships, where he reached the final, demonstrating his talent on a big stage. He also participated in several Diamond League races, which are prestigious events in the athletics world. His coach and mentor, Joel Kidger, praised Robbie's work ethic, saying, 'Robbie was talented but, even more so, a hard worker. He was gritty, determined, and usually got to where he wanted. ' Charlie Grice, who trained alongside Robbie, paid tribute to him, saying, 'You were a true fighter who always gave your best. ' In recent years, Robbie made a transition from middle-distance running to long-distance races. He was preparing to run in the 2025 Brighton Marathon to support the charity Mind, which focuses on mental health awareness. In a touching gesture, Robbie's father, Robin, will now run in his place, as announced by the club. This news has deeply affected the running community, and Robbie will be remembered for his dedication, spirit, and the positive influence he had on many lives.