Robbie Fitzgibbon: Former British international athlete dies aged 28
Robbie Fitzgibbon, a British middle-distance runner, has passed away at the age of 28, as reported by his athletics club.
The athlete, who competed for Great Britain in the European Championships, was characterized by his club Brighton Phoenix as the perfect example of what a runner should be.
The club announced on Friday with deep sorrow that one of our beloved athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon, has passed away.
Robbie was a great friend to many and an inspiration to everyone lucky enough to know him. He truly represented what it means to be a passionate runner, reflecting everything we cherish at Phoenix.
"His impact on Phoenix is lasting, preserved in the many memories we've created together."
Fitzgibbon made his debut race for the athletics club when he was just 12 years old. He later proudly represented his country at the European Championships, where he reached the finals, and also took part in multiple Diamond League events.
Before he passed away, he was getting ready to participate in next year's Brighton Marathon to collect funds for the mental health organization Mind.
In a fundraising post for the event, Fitzgibbon shared that he was diagnosed with psychosis in 2022, calling his journey to recovery a "very tough struggle."
He mentioned that his goal was to gather funds for Mind in order to "increase awareness and generate financial support for individuals facing situations similar to what I experienced."
His father, Robin, will take his place and run instead, according to Brighton Phoenix.
In honor of the athlete, Fitzgibbon's coach, Jon Bigg, expressed: "Robbie, I hope you’ve discovered tranquility and that your adventures are boundless in your new place. You were an extraordinary athlete, even better than you realized."
Stay updated with Sky News on WhatsApp.
Stay updated on the latest happenings in the UK and across the globe by following Sky News.
Fitzgibbon's training partner, Charlie Grice, expressed, "You were a genuine warrior who consistently put in your all. It's the only way to reach a European final, right? Take it easy now, my friend. You'll always be remembered."
Sussex Athletics expressed their profound sorrow over Fitzgibbon's passing, while the Brighton and Hove Athletic Club remembered him as an "exceptional athlete and a wonderful person."
If you're experiencing emotional pain or having thoughts of suicide, you can reach out to Samaritans for support by calling 116 123 or emailing [email protected] if you're in the UK. For those in the US, you can contact your local Samaritans branch or call 1 (800) 273-TALK for assistance.
