News_
In Memory
Friday 11th October 2024
Robbie Fitzgibbon 23 March 1996 – 7 October 2024
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. His contribution to Phoenix is enduring, living on through the countless memories we have shared.
Below, we share a snippet of some of the heartfelt tributes from those who knew him best. These words capture some of the essence of Robbie’s character, both on and off the track.
“Robbie was talented but, even more so, a hard worker. He was gritty, determined, and usually got to where he wanted! You’re a star, Gibby, and you will never be forgotten. RIP.”
Robbie joined Brighton Phoenix as a junior, and through dedication, relentless hard work, and determination, he became a GB senior international-level athlete.
“The first time a young Robbie Fitzgibbon came on a club training camp to Wales you never would have thought that this shy young little lad would one day become a British International athlete.”
His first recorded race for the club was on 25 October 2008 at just 12 years old where he placed 10th in the Goodwood Cross Country. Robbie’s running career took him to impressive heights, including a personal best of 3:36 for 1500m at an international meet in the Netherlands in 2017. That same year, he represented Great Britain at the senior level in the Senior European Championships, reaching the final, and went on to compete in several Diamond League races.
“We lived and trained together for years, sharing countless miles around the world from sunny Kenya track sessions to wet and windy runs on the downs. You were a true fighter who always gave your best. How else do you make it to a European final? Rest easy, mate. You'll never be forgotten.”
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.
“He was advised by, coach, Geoff Hill not to run in the SEAA XC Champs while he was managing his workload, but still travelled to Beckenham with the team and photographed all his clubmates for the duration of the event.”
This summer, he was part of the South Downs Way Relay team, setting a new 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. Naturally, he finished first.
Robbie’s shift in focus towards enjoyment, balance and being part of the athletics family was perfectly demonstrated when asked by a club mate what he was going to do in the Lake District with his Father Robin, naturally expecting the answer to be ‘running’. His reply instead was that running was going to take a back seat while he spent quality time walking with his Dad.
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 teammate, and an irreplaceable part of our Phoenix family.
“Robbie, I hope you have found peace and that the runs are endless wherever you are. You were one hell of an athlete, better than you ever truly knew.”
Robbie had been preparing to run the 2025 Brighton Marathon in aid of the charity ‘Mind’, Robin his dad 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.
We are also creating a book of memories to celebrate Robbie’s life. We invite anyone who knew him to share their thoughts, stories, and photos. Please send contributions here.
Our hope is that this collection will provide comfort and bring some joy to his family and friends in the years ahead.
Robbie’s spirit, his determination, and the kindness he showed will forever be a part
of Brighton Phoenix.
He will never be forgotten.
Mike Townley (Chair) & Josh Guilmant (Vice Chair)
For the Brighton Phoenix Board.