Robert Neil (Gus) Irving, one of the great all-around athletes in Idaho history. A native of Rupert, played five years of football at Idaho; was captain of the frosh team in 1917, and then four years of varsity ball.
Highly talented halfback with speed and power he once gained 125 yards against the University of Oregon in the dedication game at Hayward Field in Eugene, which was more than the entire Oregon team. A great track star, he also once placed first in the shop put, javelin and discus in a Northwest Collegiate meet. Qualified for the 1920 Olympic team in the pentathlon; however, did not make the trip to Belgium. Was featured in "Ripley's Believe It of Not" for kicking 74 consecutive field goals and PAT's in his football career.
For more than 37 years he served the U. S. Department of Agriculture. From 1922-38 was cooperative extension agent for Kootenai County, Idaho. For 17 years he was the state conservationist for the Soil Conservation Service in Boise. Charter member of the Soil Conservation Society of America. Was named a "Fellow" at the 1959 National Convention. Southern Idaho chapter of the organization is officially known as the R. N. Irving Chapter. Following retirement during the 1960's he was engaged in real estate business in Coeur d'Alene.