Robbie Whelan’s sudden passing rocked Clonmel Athletic Club to its core

Clonmel Athletic Club was rocked to its core last week when hearing of the sudden passing of Robert (Robbie) Whelan.

Robbie, as everyone affectionately called him, was a prominent figure as both an administrator and advocate for juvenile athletics.

He could always be picked out at juvenile training sessions as the one organising and orchestrating the sessions, ensuring everyone knew where they should be and taking the roll of attendance at training.

At Robbie’s funeral Mass it was no surprise to hear from all close to him how much of a family man he was. Robbie always spoke with such pride about the sporting achievements of his children Killian and Sarah.

Yet for all of that substantial input, many still recall Robbie the athlete in his teenage years. With huge potential in the sport, he secured individual medals in both the All-Ireland Under 12 and Under 14 Cross Country Championships, an unprecedented achievement in the club’s history at that time.

Though his future involvement in sport took a different path, Robbie’s love for athletics never ceased and Clonmel AC were the fortunate beneficiaries of his vast experience and acknowledged wisdom. He was deeply respected by official and athletes throughout the county and beyond.

As he said recently, winning a national medal was one of his proudest moments and as the sport had given him so much he wanted to give something back.

His years of service on the club committee as a juvenile PRO and registrar have been invaluable.

Robbie was always the voice of reason on the committee, his opinions and knowledge commanded respect.

When he spoke people listened, but he also was a good ear for those who needed advice or support.

Though Robbie had just stepped down from the club committee to concentrate on his work with Swim Ireland, he was still keen to make himself available to those stepping into his shoes at the club, a testament to his character.

Robbie’s loss to us is immeasurable but his legacy is rich and unforgettable. We are so much the better and wiser for having known Robbie and so much the stronger and steadfast for his great contribution.

The club would like to extend its deepest condolences to Robbie’s wife Joanne, son Killian, daughter Sarah and all his extended family and many friends.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

- Niall O’Sullivan