VALE: Russell Riches
Tweetwords by Wade Aunger
A tribute to a gentleman:
I met this wonderful man when he was racing his dirt kart in Alice Springs earlier this year. He was really keen to have a few photos with his lovely wife Sue - he said they didn't really ever get photos taken of the two of them before and would I mind taking a few?
Ever meet somebody you can just instantly see the good in? That was my impression of Russell Riches. Somebody who clearly loved and was proud of his wife, his family, his friends and his karting.
pic by Wade Aunger
A week ago he was tragically struck down by a stroke and sadly never regained consciousness. After an agonising week for his lovely wife, family and friends, Russell passed away.
Yesterday his friends the Alkies, the Wedges, the Days and the entire WA Dirt Kart Title competitors gave him a lap of honour that he would certainly be proud of, with Adam Brand's "Good Friends" playing on the PA system as David Ahlquist drove his kart around with Russell's number and tribute graphics emblazoned on the side pod. It was a tribute befitting a man who touched many people's lives.
Looking back on this photo, taken at Alice Springs in July, I doubt I've ever been as grateful for my camera as I am at this moment. I only knew you a matter of days Russ, but it's clear to me that you were a fantastic man. My love goes out to Sue, your family and your friends who miss you so enormously.
Rest in peace RR... Wade
pic by Wade Aunger
pic by Wade Aunger
pic by Wade Aunger
