A Victorian silver presentation rowing beaker,

A Victorian silver presentation rowing beaker,
by Stephen Smith, London 1878,
tapering circular form, embossed and chased with masks, swags and foliate scroll decoration, inscribed 'Walter Rye beat Sydenham Dixon Thames Long Course 16 Nov. 1878', on a circular foot, height 12.9cm, approx. weight 4.6oz.

Walter Rye was probably rowing at the Thames Rowing Club when he won this prize. A multi-talented, mildly eccentric sportsman, and newspaper columnist and later a Mayor in Norfolk. In 1868 he held all the world walking records from 1 mile to 7 miles. He is seen as the 'father' of cross-country running. As well as competing in running and rowing, he also took part in archery, billiards, and boxing.