Today, November 2 2011, one year to that fateful day, Mick Fanning and surfing fans the world over mourn the tragic loss of Andy Irons. His death, suffered by cardiac arrest, came far to soon. But, as Fanning tells redbull.com.au, the three-time world champion shall not be forgotten and his memory will live on so long as waves continue to ripple along shorelines.
"I can't believe it's been a year - I mean, far out. It's still so fresh," Mick says from San Francisco. "It just happened so quick and it's just as bad as it was the day it happened. It's still really fresh for everyone and our hearts go out to him and his family."
He said today would be one of the most emotional days of most on tour's lives.
"It's going to be another sad day for sure. He was a great surfer and an even better person," said Mick. "All the guys are going to do a paddle out before the first heat is on in the morning. Everyone is doing it to show him the respect that he deserves.
"I don't know what they are doing in Hawaii but tomorrow will be a big day here for all of us, showing our respect and how much we miss the guy.
"Not having him here has left a hole. It's been weird. You sit there and you go through all the contenders for an event you are at and you always seem to throw Andy's name in there all the time. And then you can't believe he is not there.
"And also too just all the memories throughout the year at different stops and all the funny stories. It hits you every place you go.
"We won't ever forget him."
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