The Eight: A Season in the Tradition of Harvard Crew

Although Harvard's legendary varsity crew did not measure up to expectations in intercollegiate competition in 2008, four of its alumni competed in the Beijing Olympics, and one—Malcolm Howard rowing for Canada—won the gold. In this fluid, thorough work by a former member of the U.S. National Rowing Team, journalist Sing takes a breathlessly reverential survey of the tradition of Harvard crew, first established in the Yale-Harvard regatta of 1852, expanded by innovative Harvard president Charles Eliot and championed by alum (and sculler) Teddy Roosevelt at the turn of the last century. The event's apotheosis came during the undefeated 1974–1975 season, coached by Olympian Harry Lambert Parker. Sing carefully notes Parker's coolheaded training method during early morning practices at the Newell Boathouse, where “you can smell time.... a place hallowed by deed and deserving of awe.” Over 46 years with Parker at the helm, the Crimson crews have gained 19 undefeated seasons and 17 national championships. Sing is besotted by Harvard's longstanding influence on athletics and makes an enthusiastic case for the role of sports in defining a noble character. (Mar.)