Red Rose Crew

A True Story Of Women, Winning, And The Water

By: Daniel J. Boyne, David Halberstam - Foreword

Narrated by: Donna Postel

In 1975, a group of amazing women rowed their way to international success and glory, battling sexual prejudice, bureaucracy, and male domination in one of the most grueling and competitive sports around. Among the members of the first international women's crew team - and one of the first women's teams anywhere - were Gail Pearson, the soft-spoken MIT professor who fought equally hard off the water to win the political battles neccessary for her team to succeed; lead rower Carie Graves, a statuesque bohemian from rural Wisconsin who dropped out of college and later became the most intense rower of the crew; and Lynn Stillman, a tiny 16-year-old coxswain from California.

On hand to guide them was Harry Parker, the legendary Harvard men's crew coach who overcame his doubts about the ability of women to withstand the rigors of hard training. From their first dramatic bid at the 1975 World Championships to their preparations for their first Olympic Games in 1976, this gripping story of bravery, determination, and indomitable spirit captures a compelling moment in the history of sports and of America.

©2000 Daniel J. Boyne (P)2020 Tantor

Brilliant storytelling

Brilliant tale of a watershed period in athletic history. it's a privilege to have met several of these heroes in my recreational rowing career. I'd love a sequel!

An important story, well told

This is a great book. When I started it, I knew far more about Harry Parker than I did about the Red Rose Crew. By the end, my esteem for Parker only increased.

And the crew was truly heroic., Saying that women’s rowing, or even all rowing, owes them a debt doesn’t go far enough. If you’ve ever thought, “that isn’t fair”, this story is for you. Since that group comprises everyone, I recommend “The Red Rose Crew” to all.

Resolute for Breakthrough

A deep story involving multiple personalities leaving ego locked away to come together to pleasantly surprise American rowing on the World stage. This is recommended reading for any business manager or would be executive or entrepreneur who is soul searching and asking themselves “why me?” in times of challenge or despair.

Fascinating listen

This was my first audiobook and loved every word. I am rower who came to the sport in my 50s and loved hearing about the pre-title IX system and breakthroughs.