Andy Irons, a three-time world surfing champion and one of the most popular athletes on the Assn. of Surfing Professionals' elite World Tour, has died after becoming seriously ill during a competition in Puerto Rico. Irons was only 32 and leaves behind a pregnant wife, Lyndie, and younger brother, Bruce, who is a former World Tour competitor. Irons passed away in a Dallas hotel room during a layover between flights from Puerto Rico to his home in Hawaii. He checked into the hotel Monday and his body was discovered Tuesday morning, after he failed to respond to a wake-up call.
Official Irons Family Statement: "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."

Alpinestars hearts and prayers go out the Irons Family.