Andy Irons passed away two years ago, on November 2, 2010. The Hawaiian myth is gone but not forgotten.
The surfer of smiles and fires left the surfing world when he was only 32. Too young, too soon, and too impossible to be true.
The impact of the life of Andy Irons has touched thousands of surfers everywhere. His surfing skills, determination, pace, and personality influenced many generations of surfers.
Groms learned, and veterans renewed their will to surf even better.
The last days of Andy Irons were strange.
The Hanalei world surfing champion was expected to compete at the Rip Curl Pro Search Puerto Rico, but he explained he had to leave the island to treat dengue fever.
While en route to Hawaii, he stopped in Grapevine, Texas, near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Reports said he had been vomiting on the Hawaii-bound plane before being removed prior to take-off.
Irons died on November 2, 2010. He was found lying in bed on his back by two hotel staff, with the sheets pulled up to his chin.
When the world surfing community knew what had happened, there were tears and an overall state of suspended shock and trauma. It couldn't be possible.
Kelly Slater, the eternal rival and friend, dedicated the Puerto Rico victory to Irons. The surfer is survived by his wife, Lyndie, and son, Andy Axel Irons.
The Governor of Hawaii declared February 13 as "Andy Irons Day." Forever. Till the end of waves. Read the most famous Andy Irons quotes.