SEATTLE — A former University of Washington (UW) rower has passed away, the university shared on Sunday.
Austin Regier died in a free-diving accident in the Phillippines, his family shared. Regier won a national championship in the four in the final collegiate race of his career in 2021.
"Austin had a special spirit he brought to life," said Michael Callahan, UW men's rowing coach. "He always jumped into his communities with both feet and left a positive impact on everyone who had the honor of spending time with him. He had a contagious, positive attitude and was wise for being so young. He was a man of the highest character, conviction, and insuppressible joy. He had a passion (for) adventure, competition and camaraderie."
Regier, a graduate of Mount Rainier High, learned to row at UW. He grew up in a family that served on Mercy Ships in Africa.
A true-walk on, Regier finished as a two-time IRA All-Academic honoree and captured a title in the Pac-12 and IRA title in the four during his collegiate career.
"Austin was a Washington oarsman to his core," Callahan said. "His heart for loving people and his faith was evident every day, and to all who knew him."
