UoG’s Ben Robinson is crowned world champion for seventh time with dog Zuma in Poland

Ben Robinson, Sport and Fitness Facilities Co-ordinator at University of Gloucestershire, has been crowned canicross world champion for a remarkable seventh time after producing a dominant performance with his dog Zuma in Poland.

The duo won the men’s category at the International Canicross Federation World Championship after completing two days of 5.6k runs in an overall time of 28 minutes, 44.59 seconds – 22 seconds ahead of the second-placed athlete.

Robinson had arrived at the championships fresh from winning his fifth European Championship canicross title in Sweden with Zuma, a purpose-bred crossbreed for dog sports known as a Greyster.

Robinson said: “I’m thrilled to have won the world championship again with Zuma. I knew we were in good shape after winning the European title a couple of weeks earlier, so we went into the championships with confidence.

“I want to pay massive tribute to Zuma. We’ve lived and breathed this sport together for seven years and my gratitude to him is immense.

“He had an interrupted preparation for the championships last year when we finished fourth, but that’s the only blemish on his otherwise unbeaten record.”

Robinson, who lives in Gloucester, had previously won individual canicross world titles in 2017, 2019, 2022, 2023 (two) and 2024.

Alongside his international sporting career, Robinson plays a key role in supporting the University’s sports and fitness facilities, helping to create positive experiences for students and staff.

Robinson is an accomplished runner in his own right, holding a solo (dog-free) 5k personal best of 14:18, and represents Great Britain as a Masters athlete.

The world championships in Poland proved hugely successful for the Robinson family overall as Ben’s daughter Amelia won the gold medal in her respective age-group category, his son Aaron won silver in his, and Ben’s father Matthew won bronze in his category.

Main image: Ben Robinson and Zuma at the International Canicross Federation World Championship (credit Tails by Ragno)