RIP Colin Robinson 1940 – 2026

4th June 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our President, Colin Robinson.

Colin will be remembered as one of the greatest athletes Rochdale has ever produced. Colin achieved so much in his 86 years, including winning the junior English National Cross Country Championships in 1961 and a few weeks later winning the junior International title, also leading England to a team victory. In 1969 he won the Yorkshire Three Peaks fell race in a remarkable time of 2hr 44 min (not his fastest either), again taking both individual and team titles, this time leading a Rochdale Harriers team. Colin holds all time the Club records such as an incredible 13 min 48.80 sec for 5,000m.

Colin was a member of Rochdale Harriers for 71 years, serving as President for 13 years, Membership Secretary until earlier this year and Cross Country Secretary for 67 years. Colin was not only a great athlete, he was a great servant of Rochdale Harriers and the wider athletics community, a great friend to many, generous with his time and humble about his own achievements. Colin was so humble that many new member take months or even years to learn of the achievement of the man who collected subs and watched quietly from the side of the track.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Brenda, Kristian, Emma and the rest of Colin’s family. Colin will be greatly missed.

Here are a few pictures of Colin from over the years.