A tragic loss: Triathlon to honour teenager!Geelong teen Lachlan Ricchini, 15, died by suicide. Barwon Heads Triathlon now honours him with new race.
The Barwon Heads Triathlon, a staple event in Victoria’s sporting calendar, will hold special significance this year as it introduces a new race category to honour the life of 15-year-old Geelong swimmer, Lachlan Ricchini.
Lachlan, a promising young athlete with a passion for the water, tragically took his own life in February 2024. His passing shocked the local community, prompting a wave of grief and reflection, but also inspiring action to raise awareness about youth mental health.
This weekend’s triathlon will not only be a celebration of physical achievement but also a heartfelt tribute to a life lost too soon. Organisers have worked closely with Lachlan’s family to create a new beginner-friendly category designed to encourage greater participation from families and younger athletes. This new race aims to reflect Lachlan’s own enthusiasm for sport and his love for inclusive, community-driven events.
The “Lachy’s Legacy” category, as it’s been named, offers a shorter course, ideal for children, first-timers, and families who want to participate together. The goal is to make triathlon more accessible, removing the intimidation factor for those unfamiliar with the sport, and promoting physical activity as a positive outlet for mental well-being.
Lachlan’s parents, Emma and Darren Ricchini, have expressed their gratitude to the Barwon Heads Triathlon committee for supporting this initiative. In an emotional statement, they shared, “Lachy had a beautiful soul and an infectious smile. He loved swimming and being around people. We hope this event encourages young people to stay active, stay connected, and know that they’re not alone.”
Beyond honouring Lachlan, the event also aims to shine a light on the growing mental health challenges faced by young Australians. According to recent statistics, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among Australians aged 15 to 24. The inclusion of mental health support services at the event — including information booths, local counselling resources, and representatives from Headspace — is a step toward fostering a more open dialogue around these issues.
The triathlon is expected to draw record numbers, not just from seasoned competitors but also from community members who knew Lachlan or were touched by his story. Local schools, swim clubs, and youth groups have rallied in support, with many participants donning special blue wristbands — Lachlan’s favourite colour — to commemorate his memory.
Funds raised from this year’s triathlon will go towards local mental health initiatives, with a portion specifically allocated to school-based programs in the Geelong area. These initiatives aim to provide early intervention, counselling support, and education for students, parents, and educators.
While the pain of Lachlan’s loss is still raw for many, the 2025 Barwon Heads Triathlon is shaping up to be more than a sporting event — it’s a collective show of love, resilience, and hope. Through community spirit and shared action, the memory of one young athlete will help inspire and protect many others.
