In Chapter 7, the narrative focuses on the challenging early weeks of crew season at the University of Washington. As autumn progressed, harsh weather conditions tested the aspiring rowers’ resolve. Many quit, but Joe persevered despite his poverty. He formed a friendship with Roger Morris, bonding over their shared struggles balancing academics and work commitments.

By late October, Coach Bolles selected the most promising rowers, including Joe and Roger, to advance to more challenging shell barges. The chapter then introduces George Yeoman Pocock, the master boat builder at the University of Washington. Brown recounts Pocock’s background, from his early years in England learning the craft of boat building from his father to his immigration to Canada with his brother, and eventually his arrival at the University of Washington.

Pocock’s involvement with the Washington rowing program extended beyond boat building to offering technical advice that significantly improved the team’s performance. Over time, he developed a deep understanding of rowing’s physical and psychological aspects, recognizing the powerful bond that could form among crew members when they achieved perfect synchronization. Brown emphasizes Pocock’s role as a keen observer of the aspiring freshman rowers, including Joe, and Pocock’s potential influence on the team’s future success.