Irving began covering the Blue Bombers in September of 1973 and over the years he became as familiar to the fans as any of the coaches and players. A trusted and respected reporter, his work in radio and in television over parts of six different decades was universally lauded by fans and by other play-by-play voices. What also made his work unique was it came while working for one media outlet: CJOB.
Irving is a member of a number of halls of fame, including the media wing of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame and the Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Media Roll of Honour.
He also received the Order of Manitoba in 2014, our province’s highest honour, and his impact in the community beyond his work at CJOB while working with numerous charities is immeasurable.
He was added to the Blue Bombers Ring of Honour in 2021.
The Manitoba government established the Bob Irving Scholarship in 2023 to support a full-time student entering their second or later year (minimum of two years of study) of a recognized post-secondary broadcast journalism program who strives to make a career in the field. The scholarship will be awarded annually in Fall of each year to support the eligible student.
Applications are open from April 1st, 2024 – June 28th, 2024.