Latest news with #IronmanUK
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Sport
- Perth Now
Sporting world rocked by shock death of much-loved Aussie: ‘So unfair'
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. Triathletes from across the world have been shocked by the death of Ironman emcee Jay Luke. Credit: Instagram '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.'
7NEWS
3 days ago
- Sport
- 7NEWS
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.'
Western Telegraph
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Tributes as Ironman Wales announcer Jay Luke dies suddenly
Tributes are being paid to Australian Jay Luke, who was a much-loved commentator on the iconic event, alongside Paul Kaye and Joanne Murphy. 'Jay was the life and soul of the red carpet and finish line and made race day very special for so many,' said one athlete, following the sad news shared by Ironman UK. In an emotional Facebook post, the organisation said: "It breaks our hearts to share the devastating news that a dear member of our IRONMAN UK family has passed away. More Stories "The life and soul of the red carpet": Jay Luke (Image: Huw Fairclough) "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." Jay Kent helped make the Ironman race day special for thousands of athletes. (Image: Huw Fairclough) Added one tribute: 'Jay was amazing, truly a one-of-a-kind person, events won't be the same without him." Another said: "The red carpet will never be the same again," while there was also praise for Jay as 'one clever and agile commentator'. Meanwhile, an Ironman competitor recalled: "A true part of the epic Ironman experience and him calling me through the finish line is a memory I cherish dearly." Fellow announcer Paul Kaye described Jay's death as 'tragic, devastating news'. He commented: "Victory Alley won't quite be the same again. "Triathlon is a niche sport, and within that niche is a small family of announcers and DJs. "This family lost one of its own."
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Tributes as much-loved Pembrokeshire event announcer dies suddenly
One of the Ironman Wales commentary team, who encouraged thousands of athletes over the finishing line in Tenby in recent years, has sadly died. Tributes are being paid to Australian Jay Luke, who was a much-loved commentator on the iconic event, alongside Paul Kaye and Joanne Murphy. 'Jay was the life and soul of the red carpet and finish line and made race day very special for so many,' said one athlete, following the sad news shared by Ironman UK. In an emotional Facebook post, the organisation said: "It breaks our hearts to share the devastating news that a dear member of our IRONMAN UK family has passed away. "The life and soul of the red carpet": Jay Luke (Image: Huw Fairclough) "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." Jay Kent helped make the Ironman race day special for thousands of athletes. (Image: Huw Fairclough) Added one tribute: 'Jay was amazing, truly a one-of-a-kind person, events won't be the same without him." Another said: "The red carpet will never be the same again," while there was also praise for Jay as 'one clever and agile commentator'. Meanwhile, an Ironman competitor recalled: "A true part of the epic Ironman experience and him calling me through the finish line is a memory I cherish dearly." Fellow announcer Paul Kaye described Jay's death as 'tragic, devastating news'. He commented: "Victory Alley won't quite be the same again. "Triathlon is a niche sport, and within that niche is a small family of announcers and DJs. "This family lost one of its own."
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
'Plan ahead' - all the road closures for Bolton's biggest sporting event
Locals are being urged to plan ahead and enjoy an action packed weekend when Ironman UK comes to Bolton this summer. Bolton Council have announced which roads will be closed for the weekend now to allow people to prepare for the three-day sporting festival in June. Bolton Ironman 70.3 will be returning to the town from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8. Thousands of athletes are expected to take part in the three different events, with temporary road closures needed to keep residents, competitors and spectators safe. The closures will be similar to those put in place during previous years. (Image: Bolton Council) Along with the Ironman 70.3 competition itself on Sunday – there will also be the Night Run on Friday and Ironkids on Saturday. The temporary closures for Ironman 70.3 will extend from Pennington Flash to Bolton, mainly affecting Chorley New Road and the town centre. The town centre and Middlebrook retail park will be open as normal all weekend. Anyone driving into the town centre is advised to park at one of the car parks, which will be open as normal. Anyone heading to Middlebrook retail park from Bolton is advised to use Wigan Road (A676/A58) to Manchester Road/Chorley Road (A6) and then use De Havilland Way (A6027). A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: 'Thousands of local people and visitors will be taking part in and enjoying our three IRONMAN events and we are sure that there will once again be a fabulous atmosphere. 'But with so many people taking part, including children, we are asking everyone to help us make safety the highest priority. 'Temporary road closures are an unavoidable part of large events and while every effort is made to keep disruption to a minimum, we strongly advise residents and visitors to check the route maps and plan ahead accordingly.' Have a story? Get in touch at More information on the course and diversions to avoid road closures, including maps and timings, can be found on the IRONMAN website. A road access hotline for further information is available six weeks prior to the events and throughout the race weekend by calling 03330 11 66 00. Residents can also email bolton70.3@ for more information but this will not be monitored on race day. READ MORE: Registration opens for IRONKIDS and Night Run Bolton UK READ MORE: Ironman Bolton - sign up for Ironkids and Night Run READ MORE: New race becomes England's only full-length Ironman course Le Mans Crescent, Howell Croft North and Howell Croft South will be closed from 06:00 on Friday, June 6 to 09:00 on Monday, June 9 due to the course set up and build for the weekend events. Moor Lane, Deansgate, Knowsley Street, Chorley Street, Spa Road, St Edmund Street, Helena Road and Bridge Street will be closed 17:30 – 21:00. Spa Road will be closed eastbound from 17.30 – 21:00. Le Mans Crescent will be closed all day. Deansgate will be closed 06:00 – 17:00. St Helen's Road, Sandy Lane, Byrom Lane, Slag Lane and Lowton Road will be closed from 06:00 – 10:00. Wigan Road/Warrington Road (A573) will be closed 06:00 – 10:30. Bickershaw Lane, a short section of the A578, Nel Pan Lane and Westleigh Lane will be closed 06:00 –10:45. Atherleigh Way (A579) between St Helen's Road and Kirkhall Lane will be closed northbound only 06:00 – 09:45. Atherleigh Way (A579) will be closed northbound only between Kirkhall Lane and the Talbot roundabout 06:00 –10:45. Gibfield Park Way and Gibfield Park Avenue will be closed 06:30 – 11:00. North Road from the junction with Gibfield Park Avenue, Platt Lane and the A58 from Platt Lane to the Chequerbent roundabout will be closed 06:30 – 11:00. Park Road and Manchester Road (A6) will be closed westbound only from 07:00 – 11:00. Chew Moor Lane / Tempest Road to Regent Road, and Regent Road to Chorley New Road, will be closed 07:00 – 11:15. De Havilland Way will be closed northbound 07:00 – 13:00. Victoria Road (A58) and Old Kiln Lane will be closed 07:00 – 13:00. Chorley New Road from Beaumont Road to the Beehive Roundabout will be closed eastbound from 07:00 – 13:00. There will be access westbound throughout the day. Chorley New Road from Beaumont Road to Waterslea Drive will be closed from 07:00 – 13:30. Chorley New Road from Waterslea Drive to St George's Road (B6226) will be closed 07:00 – 17:30 Chew Moor Lane, St John's Road, Tempest Road, Regent Road will be closed 07:00 – 11:15. Chorley Street, Bark Street, St Helena's Road, Blackhorse Street and Queen Street will be closed 07:00 – 15:30. Spa Road will be closed from 06:00 – 18:00.
