Noah Aldrich made headlines around the world in July 2014 after completing a youth triathlon with his disabled brother, Lucas. Noah was only eight years old, and Lucas was six. Noah pulled and pushed his wheelchair throughout the triathlon because his brother, Lucas, could not walk or talk. The triathlon was already difficult for the young boy, and having to care for his brother added to the stress!
Nothing, however, could keep Noah from finishing the triathlon alongside Lucas. The two brothers had always been close, and when Noah learned about the YMCA triathlon, he was determined to compete alongside Lucas. The then-8-year-old boy had a strict training schedule to prepare for the triathlon. He spent three months training for the triathlon so he could swim, run, and cycle while carrying Lucas.
The triathlon was the start of the two brothers’ active participation in additional triathlons. Noah and Lucas have participated in several triathlons together since completing their first triathlon together. “I can’t even count how many triathlons we’ve done,” Noah admitted. Noah stated that he simply wanted his brother to have the same experience as him, which prompted him to join the triathlons as a team with Lucas.
“I do triathlons with Lucas because he can’t do anything on his own; all I want to do is give him those experiences.” “It felt great,” Noah said. “The best thing I could ask for is Lucas’ smile; no award can compare.” Lucas was diagnosed with lissencephaly, a rare brain disorder, when he was only three months old. “He can’t walk or talk, but he’s the happiest little guy you could ever imagine, and he just loves being around people,” says the mother.
Alissa Aldrich, their mother, told TODAY Parents in an interview. When asked about Lucas and Noah’s special bond, Alissa said, “He’s so humble and it’s really all about Lucas,” Aldrich said. “I doubt he’d do triathlons if it weren’t for Lucas.” Finally, we want people to remember Noah and Lucas for their kindness and love. I think the world isn’t so kind right now, so having that as a legacy of brotherly love is important.”