Kevin Curran ('75) Donor Story

In the world of college athletics, few experiences rival the combination of physical intensity, togetherness, and personal transformation quite like rowing. For generations of UCLA oarsmen, the boathouse has been more than just a training ground—it's been a forge of lifelong friendships and enduring values. At this year's San Diego Crew Classic, that spirit was on full display as Bruins past and present came together to celebrate a unique and powerful tradition.

Since its founding in 1933, UCLA Men's Rowing has relied on walk-on athletes—students with no prior rowing experience—to fill the seats in its racing shells. The tradition continues to this day, as raw athleticism, mental grit, and an unbreakable work ethic remain the only prerequisites for joining the team. The pledge period for this fraternity is a complete immersion into a lifestyle of early mornings, grueling practices, and unwavering accountability. There are no cuts. These walk-ons form the backbone of a program that has become one of the top contenders in the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA), and their legacy is carried forward by every generation of rowers who pass through the doors of the UCLA Boathouse.

The program's recent success has come under the guidance of Head Coach Marcel Stiffey, who credits not only his athletes, but also the alumni support group, the Friends of UCLA Men's Rowing (FOUR). "The winning wouldn't happen without them," he says. That sentiment rang especially true during this year's special alumni weekend at the San Diego Crew Classic, where Bruins gathered to honor the past and cheer on the future.

The weekend featured a strong showing on the water: a spirited UCLA Alumni 8 took home a win in their event, and the Varsity 8 captured the ACRA Challenge Cup, giving alumni plenty to celebrate from the shores of Mission Bay.

Among those in attendance was Kevin Curran ('75), who joined the team as a walk-on and went on to a successful career as a lawyer and FBI agent. Kevin was honored at the event for a generous gift to the UCLA Men's Rowing Foundation, earmarked to support out-of-state team travel—a crucial factor in building national competitiveness. His contribution reflects not just his commitment to the program, but also his personal passion for travel. Having explored the far corners of the globe—specializing in remote island destinations like Easter Island, Pitcairn Island, and Tristan da Cunha—Kevin understands the transformative power of venturing beyond familiar waters.

"I hope today's oarsmen are able to develop the strong and lasting friendships with their teammates that I did," Kevin shared during the presentation. His remarks resonated with alumni spanning multiple decades—some of whom, like Kevin, found that their closest lifelong friendships began learning how to row a boat in Marina del Rey. 

For the men of UCLA Rowing, both past and present, the sport has always been about more than racing. The experience is about the brotherhood formed in boats, the trust built stroke by stroke, and the deep pride in representing UCLA with strength, unity, and resolve.

As the program looks ahead to the rest of the spring season, the team is bolstered by a culture of support, achievement, and shared commitment. To all who have pulled an oar for UCLA—thank you for being part of this enduring institution and for your support. And to those who continue to answer the call: no experience necessary, just the heart to row to win.

Brotherhood in Boats: UCLA Rowing Alumni Celebrate Gift from Kevin Curran (‘75)
- Men's Rowing 4/7/2025 5:33:00 AM Chalie Hughes '84
https://uclaclubsports.com/news/2025/4/7/mens-rowing-brotherhood-in-boats-ucla-rowing-alumni-celebrate-gift-from-kevin-curran-75.aspx