Robbie Fitzgibbon, who was part of Brighton Phoenix club, ran as a senior international athlete for Great Britain, running his first race, the Goodwood Cross Country, at 12 years old.
In 2017, Robbie finished 13th in the 1500m at the London Anniversary Games.
His club shared that more recently, Robbie had taken a step back from middle-distance running to take part in distance running.
This summer, he ran with the South Downs Relay team. The club also said he took part in the Christmas day Preston Park park run with “a monumental hangover”.
Robbie was set to take part in the Brighton Marathon next year, raising money for mental health charity Mind. Robbie’s dad will now run in his place.
So far, Robbie’s fundraiser has raised over £8,000.
On the JustGiving page, Robbie shared that he was diagnosed with psychosis in 2022 and that recovering had been “a really difficult challenge”.
A statement shared by chairman of Brighton Phoenix Mike Townley and vice chairman Josh Guilmant reads: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most cherished athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon.
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“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.
“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’s training partner, Charlie Grice, said: “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.”
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