Tributes flow for Australian triathlon commentator Jay Luke: ‘This loss cuts deeply’

Tributes are flowing from across the globe after the unexpected death of much-loved Australian Jay Luke.

Luke was a well-known commentator in the triathlon world and could often been seen and heard encouraging athletes as they crossed finish line.

The charismatic caller — also known as the ‘BondiBadBoy’ — lived a globetrotting life, but was a respected member of the Ironman Wales commentary team.

Only a week ago he flew into England, saying on his social media page: “Goooood morning England! The Eagle has Landed! The Man on The Mic is BACK for some Super Summer Announcing Adventures.”

Luke was the voice of the triathlon in Tenby (a seaside town in Wales), and Ironman UK broke the shattering news of his death.

“It breaks our hearts to share the devastating news that a dear member of our IRONMAN UK family has passed away,” the organisation said.

“Jay Luke, who has called thousands of athletes across the line during their IRONMAN journey over the past nine years, was part of the fabric of our team. His presence, humour, and unwavering support were felt by everyone lucky enough to know him.

“From the jokes, laughs, coffee missions and unmatched travelling cap collection to his infectious energy on the finish line, his absence leaves a huge hole in our hearts. We will carry his spirit in all we do.

“We are heartbroken, and our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his wife, family, friends, and all who loved him.

“Rest in peace, Jay — it won’t be the same without you.”

Austriathlon said “finish lines won’t sound the same without Jay Luke”.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of hearing him call them home,” Austriathlon said.

NSW Triathlon said the triathlon community had “lost one of its finest”.

“We are heartbroken to share the devastating news of the passing of Jay Luke,” NSW Triathlon said.

“Jay was a cherished presence at triathlon and multisport events across NSW and Australia. From Club Champs to countless local and national races, he brought unmatched energy, quick wit, and a deeply genuine spirit to every finish line he called.

“More than just a voice, Jay was a true pillar of our community. His humour, kindness, and unwavering support lifted everyone around him — whether on the mic, out on a group ride, or behind the scenes. He made every event brighter, every athlete feel seen, and every moment more memorable.

“This loss cuts deeply. Words fall short, but his spirit will continue to echo in everything we do.

“Our hearts go out to his wife, family, friends, and the many whose lives he touched. We grieve with you. Rest peacefully, Jay. Thank you for everything — until we meet again.”

Luke’s commentating colleague Paul Kaye said it was “tragic, devastating news”.

“Victory Alley won’t quite be the same again,” Kaye said.

“Triathlon is a niche sport, and within that niche is a small family of announcers and DJs.

“This family lost one of its own.”

Ironman photographer Huw Fairclough called Luke “the entertainer with so much energy”.

“RIP Jay, going to miss you,” he said.

Many athletes were also shocked and shattered.

“Jay was the life and soul of the red carpet and finish line and made race day very special for so many,” one athlete said.

Another said: “Jay was amazing, truly a one-of-a-kind person, events won’t be the same without him.”

Kirribilli running coach Bel Fong said it seemed “unimaginable that we won’t get to share another finish line” with Luke.

“If you didn’t know Jay Luke, you would have more than likely heard him call your name over a microphone. He was there for countless triathlon finish lines ....

“Jay was such a character but most of all, he was a friend. Having know him for 10 years, he was always there for a laugh and a heckle. Man, did he love a heckle! He relished every opportunity to get on the mic and ask me in front of thousands of people if I’d found a boyfriend yet!

“But that’s who he was. Jay knew everyone’s name. He had the gift of the gab and made people laugh with his witty race day banter and light-hearted digs. Commentating is a tough job but he did it with such ease, humour and energy.“It feels strange that I can no longer send him a text, or ask him when he’ll be announcing my next embarrassing dating anecdotes again. I’ll miss the little ‘Elite Energy Front Line’ videos he used to make, getting everyone pumped up for race week. He had so many plans for the future and so much life left to live. It feels so unfair and is yet another reminder of how short life truly is.“I want to send all of my love and support to his wife, Paula (whom he loved with his whole being), as well as his training partners at Moore Performance and all of those who knew him.“Rest easy, Jay. I’II keep looking for you; out on the bike and at the next race, hoping to somehow feel your presence again.”