Andy Irons: 1978 - 2010. Photo courtesy of ASP/Scholtz

Saying goodbye to someone taken in their prime was never going to be easy. However as more than a thousand friends, family and supporters staged an immense paddle out yesterday at Andy Irons’ local beach, the mood was one of celebration, not despair.

In a beautiful and fitting tribute, Irons’ ashes were released into Hanalei Bay, Kauai, in the company of Andy’s family, wife Lyndie and close friends. Flowers were released from a helicopter circling above while thousands more supporters watched from the beach.

Watch Channel 7's report

Around the globe, synchronised tributes were held in Australia, Europe and mainland USA as the surfing community said farewell to one of its most cherished and talented members. Irons was known as an aggressive and fearless competitor who was a three times ASP World Champ.

Irons was found dead in a hotel room in Dallas, Texas, on 3 November 2010. The cause of death is a suspected case of dengue fever, a viral disease.

Irons is survived by his wife, Lyndie, who is eight months pregnant with their first child.