Tribute by the IARU

The late Wally Stevens

The President, Officers, CEO and Board members of the IARU are sad to report the passing of Walter Stevens, former Olympic team member, IARU Secretary and President, stalwart of Metropolitan Regatta Committee and Neptune Rowing Club.
Our sincere condolences to Molly, Ger and Martin.

On the closure of Dublin Rowing Club in 1942 “Wally” Stevens joined Neptune Rowing Club. He competed successfully at all levels of rowing for the club . In 1948 He was a member of the Irish Olympic Squad which competed in the Olympic Games in London. In 1953 he was a member of the first Neptune crew to row at Henley.
In Neptune he served at every level of administration inc. President 1961,62,63, 82, 83, captain 1955 and 68. Hon. Sec. 1953.
He was chairman of Dublin Metropolitan Council for many years and was a member of a group responsible for moving the regatta from Islandbridge to Blessington. He took an active part in the planning of the boathouse there.
He was Secretary (1959 – 1972). of the IARU for many years and then President (‘73 – ’76), and was also a member of the Olympic Council of Ireland.
While Secretary, he was involved in further getting Ireland on the international scene by taking the Old Collegians four to the European Championships in 1964. During his presidency, Ireland won its first medal with Sean Drea’s silver in 1975.

Wally worked for many years in the Brewing Depts. of Guinness Brewery Dublin. He was very fond of the company’s association with the Emerald Star line and had many trips on the River Shannon

As well as being a valued member of Neptune and a great friend to all who knew him he was highly regarded in the wider Rowing community.
May he rest in peace