Crew Challenges Columbia; Starters Fight for Places

Five months of "pre-season" work will end on April 10 for Harvard's outstanding lightweight crew as they meet a traditionally inferior Columbia squad on the Charles.

Seven out of eight starters returning from last year's varsity boat are currently battling to retain their positions. It is unlikely, however, that all seven will succeed, as they are being hard pressed by members of last season's undefeated J.V. and freshman lights.

According to coach Steve Gladstone, the only seat not in question is that belonging to senior Dave Harmon, who will stroke the boat. Harmon is beginning his second year as captain of the lights.

The most likely candidates to break into the starting shell appear to be sophomores Andy Narva and Ephram King King's success so far has been somewhat of a surprise as he is a newcomer to Harvard rowing.

Gladstone expects to make the final choices for his first boat on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week to allow the squad a few days to become accustomed to working with each other.

'Spirit of Winning'

Neither Gladstone nor captain Harmon were willing to discount the Columbia squad. "Columbia was a constantly improving team last season," Gladstone commented. "With new head coach Larry Gluckman on the scene, a spirit of winning is being instilled into the Lions' squad. The fact that they are sending three eights and a four is indicative of a renewed interest in Columbia crew."

Harmon was also reluctant to claim victory over Columbia. "Because of Spring break falling the week before our first race," he said, "we are forced to give up three days of intense workouts so as not to be too fatigued before the Columbia race. Missing these days could have an effect on our first few races, but especially on the Columbia race."

Since coming to Harvard from Princeton, where he coached freshman heavyweight crew, Gladstone's record has been as impressive as that of any Harvard coach in any sport. His only loss in three years in either the varsity or J.V. division came two summers ago in the annual Henley Cup competition in England.