Vale Jack Iroga – 1986 – 2026
It is with deep sadness that we share the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague, Jack Iroga of Solomon Islands.
Jack began his athletics journey by proudly following in the footsteps of his father, James. He was one of the very first recipients of an Oceania Athletics High Performance Training Scholarship in 2003/2004, training at the Oceania High Performance Centre at the Millennium Institute in Auckland.
A talented and versatile athlete, Jack achieved significant success on the regional stage. He won silver in the high jump at the 2003 OAA Melanesian Championships, followed by silver in the discus and bronze in the 110m hurdles at the 2005 edition. In 2008, he claimed a bronze medal in the 100m at the Oceania Championships. During the 2006 Grand Prix series held in Ba, Sigatoka and Apia, Jack finished second overall in the field events.
Jack proudly represented the Solomon Islands at the 2003 World Youth Championships, the 2004 World Junior Championships in Grosseto, and the 2006 and 2010 Commonwealth Games, competing in the 100 metres.
Beyond his achievements on the track, Jack made an enduring contribution to athletics as an official and educator. He served as Chief Judge at the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara and was a valued member of the Jury of Appeal for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, where his integrity and deep knowledge of the rules ensured fair and well-run competitions.
Jack was also deeply committed to developing others. He lectured at the OBAS Course held in Honiara in 2025, helping to build the capacity of local coaches. In December 2025, he served as a Lecturer for the World Athletics CECS Level II Sprints, Hurdles, and Relays Course on the Gold Coast, providing high-quality teaching and mentorship.
Jack’s passing is an immense loss to athletics—not only in the Solomon Islands, but across the entire Oceania Region. As an athlete, coach, educator, and technical official, he made an invaluable contribution. As a person, he was kind, warm, humble, and a joy to work with.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jack’s family and to his athletics family. We will miss his smile, his gentle nature, and his genuine friendship.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Jack.
–ENDS–