Genius comes into this world in many forms. So often we think of genius in terms of an IQ test, although this is genius in its narrowest measure. Watching Tiger Woods playing his “A-game”, Hermann Maier or Bode Miller on Super G course, or Benjamin Reich on a slalom coarse. The way Martin Luther King Jr., Ghandi, or The Dalai Lama live their faith. And to watch a genius like Andy Irons in the water can make us all richer. The power of doing what you love, and sharing your joy is truly special.
A person doesn’t have to be perfect at all times to be admired as a genius. A person’s legacy should not be written about what they didn’t do, but what they did and how they affected others. Andy won 3 World Surfing Titles (2002-04), 3 Quiksilver Pro France titles (2003-05), and 2 Rip Curl Pro Search Titles (200-6-07). He admittedly lost passion for competitive surfing at times, but continued to explore his passion for riding waves. Genius lay within most of us, but so few have the opportunity to let it shine, Andy did. Judging from the outpour of emotion and tributes throughout the world, he has affects tens of thousands of people. May we all be so fortunate.
Andy Irons died on November 2, 2010. He had reportedly been battling Dengue Fever. His wife was 7 months pregnant with their first child. Andy Irons was 32 years old.