THE SPORT OF ROWING still be a figment of my imagination. He made it real. And what can I say about John Bartucz, who is responsible for the website? He’s an artist, a true genius and a true be- liever. Diana Edkins and Josine Meijer, true professionals, arranged for the rights to many of the images you will encounter on these pages. And to my son, Philip Mallory, who spent many hours collecting data for me and many more spearheading the enormous job of proofing, editing and challenging his fa- ther to always do better. These last five, Ed, Mitch, John, Diana and Philip, became the nucleus of a team of volunteers who have turned a labor of love into reality, a book to preserve our collective memory and generate funds to charitably support the rowing community. Most of all, I thank Joe Burk, one of the greatest rowers in history before becoming one of its most inspirational coaches, not in wins but in integrity. Joe, you were a mys- tery to me, a mentor, a fierce competitor, a gentle man. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I dedicate this book to your memory. And my sincere appreciations as well to you readers, many of whom have generously volunteered contacts, photos, films, re- sources, comments, criticisms, edits, sugges- tions and encouragement along the way. I have accepted not a penny for writing these four volumes. They are my gift to the rowing community . . . and I guarantee there Old Oar Cottage Los Angeles, California June 14, 2011 will be a lot of surprises in store, things no one could have imagined before I began my research, lots of “aha” moments. I think it’s safe to say that the history I have uncovered will probably turn out not to be exactly the history you might have ex- pected. It may not even be the one you would have preferred. History tends to gore sacred cows, and this history is no excep- tion. One of those cows might just be yours. Some will surely say that Peter Mallory has come to a wrong conclusion or two. That is why I have been careful to let the participants tell their stories in their own words, not mine, and that is why I have re- lied on photos and films rather than some- one’s interpretation of technique, even my own. I have stuck to the historical evidence and attempted to present all sides of issues. Still there will be critics, but I am a firm believer in the old saying: Everybody is entitled to their own opinions, just not their own facts. History is the ultimate human adventure, an unanticipated revelation around every bend in the river. What you have in your hands is what we all have inherited from our forebears. It is a wondrous journey. Enjoy. 4
