The Australian motorsport community is mourning the loss of 13-year-old kart racer Joseph Bianchini.
The teen, from Griffith NSW, was hospitalised on Saturday and flown to Sydney Children’s hospital later that day after his health deteriorated.
Bianchini sadly passed away on Monday, according to a statement from Karting Australia.
“It is with great sadness that Karting Australia shares the news of the passing of New South Wales junior driver Joseph Bianchini,” the statement began.
“Joseph, 13, was transported to Griffith Base Hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning after experiencing a sudden deterioration in his health.
“Later that day he was flown to Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick where he sadly passed away on Monday, August 18.
“Joseph was a familiar and much-loved young competitor in our sport, racing in the Cadet and Junior categories across the country. His energy, passion and friendly nature touched many within the karting community.
“On behalf of everyone at Karting Australia, and the broader karting community, we send our heartfelt condolences to Adrian, Maria and Allegra along with the extended Bianchini family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Bianchini has since been remembered by as a kind and encouraging friend, teammate and opponent.
“Words cannot express the loss. Griffith Kart Club has lost another part of its heart and soul,” Griffith Kart Club said after the teen’s death.
“The Bianchini family is part of the very fabric of this club, both in the past and present. Joseph’s cheeky smile, sportsmanship, kindness, speed and most of all the respect he had for everyone both on and off the track is something that is admired and an example for all.
“To Adrian, Maria, Allegra, and the extended family and friends our heart goes out to you all.”
Karting champion Matt McLean, who raced in the Australian touring car racing competition Super2, was with the Bianchini family at the Sydney Children’s Hospital.
He has shared a touching tribute to the young racer, on Instagram.
“My little Joseph. Spending your last few days by your side up until your final moments was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do,” he wrote in the caption, alongside a series of photos with the teen.
“I feel so honoured to have been there with you and to have shared so many special moments together over your life.
“Words cannot explain how much this hurts, and I just thank you so much for always demonstrating the importance of looking out for those around you with complete and utter selflessness.”
“This has left a crater in my heart, but I feel far more complete having had you in our lives even though for such a short time.
“It’s only been 12 hours and I just miss you so much already.
“I’m so proud of the young man you had become, and making you proud has always been, and will remain, a priority of mine. Such a gifted boy taken too soon. I love you Coyote, fly high.”
This is the second tragedy for the Bianchini family, after the teen’s uncle – also named Joseph – passed away at just 15-years-old in 2003 in a car accident.
Wagga & District Kart Racing Club have also paid tribute, sending their condolences to the Bianchini family.
“We will miss Joseph’s bubbly and often cheeky personality, his sportsmanship and fairness on and off the track.
“The young man he was becoming was truly honourable and selfless. He was always offer encouragement to his fellow karters and would lend a hand to anyone who crossed his path.
“Your memory will forever live on. Forever racing amongst us. Fly High Joseph.”
Images: Instagram
