Leeton Skate Park saw some kids take up the sport for the first time. Photo: RRT.
Leeton has honoured the memory of Richard ‘Riggs’ O’Hara for the 23rd time, with an annual skate event attracting children and young people of all ages last weekend.
The 2025 Annual Riggz Cup, held during Youth Week, featured both professional and amateur skaters. A free learning and mentoring session was followed by a skate, scooter and BMX jam for the cup at Leeton Skate Park.
“Richard O’Hara (Riggs) was by far one of the best skaters in the area when we were growing up,” Leeton Council said.
“Riggs was one of those guys who was frighteningly great at everything he tried. Unfortunately, Richie took his own life at the peak of his skating and basketball career [in 2002]. Having this happen to such an inspirational young person hit the community hard, so we decided to celebrate Richard’s life in a yearly skate comp and named it the Riggz Cup.
“The first Riggz Cup was in 2003, just three years after we had finished the new skatepark. It was a massive event that brought communities around the area together to celebrate Richie’s life and shine a light on mental health.”
The event has been held since 2003. Photo: RRT.
The Leeton Skate Park Riggz Cup is organised by skateboarding group Totem Collective, funded by the Leeton Shire Council, and backed by Boys to the Bush, who run programs and camps for teenagers.
It was also supported by Rapid Relief Team (RRT), a group that assists emergency services in times of disaster.
RRT volunteers served almost 200 meal packs to participants.
Team leader Rod Martin said the event had run for 23 years to shine a light on the importance of supporting youth mental health.
“The Riggz Cup is more than just a skate competition – it’s a day that brings our community together to remember and support one another,” Mr Martin said.
“RRT is pleased to play a small part in creating a welcoming space for young people and families, and we’re happy to support an event with such deep meaning for Leeton.”
RRT volunteers were on hand to provide lunch. Photo: Supplied.
Each RRT meal pack served at the event included a cookie donated by Subway, in support of the event’s purpose.
RRT is the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.
Established in 2010, TOTEM’s aim is to foster the positive impact skatepark and park facilities can have on a community’s health and wellbeing.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact:
Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978.
