Brian (Richo) Richardson 1947-2024

Brian (Richo) Richardson (24 July 1947 – 15 September 2024)

Rowing Canada Aviron is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Brian Richardson, a revered figure in the rowing community, who passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the age of 77. An Australian native, Brian’s influence on the sport transcended borders, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian rowing through his distinguished career as both an elite rower and a world-class coach.

As an athlete, Brian competed at the highest levels, representing South Australia and Victoria throughout a fifteen-year career. He raced at three World Rowing Championships and represented Australia at the 1976 Montreal and 1980 Moscow Olympic Games. However, his legacy was cemented during his coaching career, spanning over two decades, where he was instrumental in shaping the future of rowing in both Canada and Australia.

Brian was a personable and outgoing character who brought a wealth of skills and experiences to his role as Head Coach with Rowing Canada during two of the most successful periods in Canadian rowing history. From 1993 to 1996, his leadership saw the team achieve multiple World Championship titles, culminating in six medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. During his second tenure as Head Coach from 2001 to 2004, Brian worked alongside an accomplished coaching team, including Mike Sparacklen, Al Morrow, Volker Nolte, Howie Campbell, Katie Burke, and Terry Paul.

While Head Coach, he was also the Lead Coach to the Women’s Lightweight Double, Wendy Wiebe and Colleen Miller, from 1993 to 1996, and directly coached athletes such as Michelle Darvill, Derek Porter, and Silken Laumann. A perceptive observer of individual characters, Brian took the time to truly know and understand relationships, actively promoting an atmosphere of camaraderie among his talented coaching team. Both on and off the water, he fostered an environment of mutual respect and trust.

Brian’s gentle yet decisive leadership set a clear standard for his athletes and fellow coaches. He led with collaboration and always had a listening ear. His years as a successful sailor with Americas Cup as well as rowing for Australia, honed his technical eye and program expertise. Those he worked with always had confidence that he would drive the program forward as captain of the ship.

Brian is survived by his partner Suzie, children Tempe, Hamish, and Annabelle, his sister Diana, niece Jane, nephew Michael, and their families. His legacy will live on through the countless athletes, coaches, and colleagues whose lives he touched throughout his illustrious career.