[2] At his death, suddenly at the age of 71 in February 2002, he was described as "arguably the greatest ever GAA referee".
[2] He was part of the team that founded the original Tullamore Harriers Club.
[2] When Offaly defeated Kilkenny in the 1980 Leinster Senior Hurling Championship final, Dowling was seen near Damien Martin's goal during the second half, urging the team onwards to a first Leinster SHC title.
[citation needed] He was elected 29th president of the Gaelic Athletic Association, taking office in 1988 and serving until 1991.
[citation needed] As GAA president he negotiated land to help develop Croke Park.