How I Remember Andy Irons, by Kelly Slater
I’ve been asked for many opinions and interviews about Andy Irons and the situations and decisions that lead to his early departure from our world. It’s not something I take lightly. I have my own opinions about not only Andy’s choices and how he ultimately got to the place he did, but also about the way these things are handled from all sides of the story. But what is right? And whose opinions actually matter other than those of his family and closest friends about who they knew and how they feel inside? What is it that each of us hopes to take away from the Andy Irons story? And what is it that we want to give to the story of his life?
Yesterday was a huge day in the world of competitive surfing for many reasons. On the flip side of the ultimate triumph of Kelly’s achievement was the remembrance of the tragic death of Andy Irons one year ago to the day. Prior to the start of the contest, there was a memorial paddle out ceremony to celebrate his life and legacy as one of the greatest surfers ever and the biggest thorn in Kelly’s side during their years together on the contest circuit. This is a heartfelt piece well worth reading. While you are at the site, you may want to read Keala Kennelly’s thoughts as well. Keala is a professional female surfer who grew up with Andy on the island of Kaua’i.