As a member (#4) of the 1973 Lightweight Crew, I am happy to see that you have our picture on your web page, together with a photo of our boat in our winning race [see Team History].

I understand that the current weight limit for lightweights is 150 lbs. and that you have to be naturally at that weight before the season starts. In our day, the limit was 135 lbs., and I started the season at over 150 lbs! Losing that weight while still rowing almost every day and going to school was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I struggled the whole season to lose weight and almost didn’t make it.  At the last few races, we only had to average 135, but for that last race every rower had to be 135 or under.

Erv Dodd let us switch from our old, heavy wooden Pocock shell to the sleek Donaratico shell before Nationals, and the change was magical. Winning that race was one of the highlights of my life.

I believe it was the Miss Fairfax. No fiberglass and carbon fiber shells then. I was a Sophomore in 1973 and went on, after substantial growth and weight gain, to be the Captain of the team and the stroke of the varsity eight in 1975. 1975 was not a good year for the varsity eight, but I still loved rowing.

Carl Moak
Lightweight Championship Crew, 1973, Seat 4
Captain 1975, Men’s Varsity 8, Stroke

If you have a history update or a memory you would like to share, send text and a photo to justicerowing@gmail.com. We would love to share your story.

More Guests Posts:
A LOOK BACK—GUEST POST FROM STUART OARSMAN 1976–1979
“EVERYBODY STAYED ABOARD”—GUEST POST FROM LEIF H.

More at the Justice Rowing photo gallery:
Miss Fairfax Restoration
Miss Fairfax Installation at Sandy Run Boathouse