I’m afraid this isnt one of our joke style blogs, this is really true.

Official Statement: HONOLULU - (November 2, 2010)—The world of surfing mourns an incredibly sad loss today with the news that Hawaii’s Andy Irons has died. Andy was a beloved husband, and a true champion. Irons, 32,withdrew from a professional surfing event in Puerto Rico last weekend due to illness and passed away during a layover en-route to his home in Kauai, Hawaii. He had reportedly been battling with dengue fever, a viral disease. At this time the family thanks his friends and fans for their support,and asks that the community respect its privacy. The family also asks to not be contacted so their focus can remain on one another during this time of profound loss.

It is with deep sadness that Billabong has learned of the news of Andy Irons passing. Andy was one of the greatest surfers of our time. More than that, he was a much loved son, a devoted husband and a soon-to-be father. The thoughts of all Billabong employees worldwide are with wife Lyndie and Andys family at this most devastating time.