‘Legacy lives on’: Ski racer and marine industry businessman dies training at age 25

A man in his 20s is being remembered by the global community of his sport after a fatal training incident.

An elite water ski racer and passionate businessman in the marine industry has died while training at 25 years old.

Jack Coaldrake died outside Sydney on Sunday; The Daily Telegraph reports he had a medical episode while on the water.

Mr Coaldrake was an elite competitor who was proud to work in the family’s auto parts business and had just returned from Europe where he met his partner’s parents for the first time, a friend told the Telegraph.

A host of family friends and members of the global ski racing community have posted tributes to the 25-year-old.

Jack Coaldrake competed internationally. Picture: Facebook

“Our world has lost another great person, Jack … Thank you for all your support, chats and memories. Sending all our love and support to the Coaldrakes and the ski racing community. May you rest in peace, legend,” one ski photographer said.

“Jack’s presence and contribution to ski racing globally will be deeply missed,” a New Zealand Water Ski Racing Association spokesperson said.

“Jack has touched the life of many in our ski racing community and we know his legacy will continue to live on.”

A family friend praised the way Mr Coaldrake’s parents raised him and his two siblings.

“You were and are the most amazing, generous smart human being,” the friend posted on social media.

“You packed so much into your 25 years – your sport, becoming an amazing businessman, amazing boss, reaching for the stars with your skiing.

Family friends and members of the global ski racing community have posted tributes to the 25-year-old. Picture: Facebook

“(To) all Jack’s amazing friends young and old, stick together and help each other get through this, and try to understand this tragedy in your lives.”

A Waterski Racing Europe spokesperson said Mr Coaldrake’s contributions extended beyond the water with his work in the media, where he “showcased the best of what our community represents”.

“Our thoughts are with Jack’s family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all that he knew.”

The operators of a NSW ski facility said: “What an incredible young man, kind, respectful and just starting out in life as a thoroughly decent young man.

“We will miss him and miss his brightness and joy for life.”

In a video posted by his physical and mental coach earlier this year, Mr Coaldrake said support had helped him earn a host of titles in 2023, including third place at a global championships event.

Mr Coaldrake was from the town of Wilberforce, 50km northwest of Sydney. He lost his life on the Hawkesbury River at nearby Lower Portland.

Originally published as ‘Legacy lives on’: Ski racer and marine industry businessman dies training at age 25