Then the coxswain called out, 'Ready all!' Joe turned and faced the rear of the boat, slid his seat forward, sank the white blade of his oar into the oil-black water, tensed his muscles, and waited for the command that would propel him forward into the glimmering darkness.

~ Daniel James Brown

Daniel James Brown Boys In The Boat Future Hope Inspirational Possibility Rowing Teamwork Washington

It is hard to make the boat go as fast as you want to. The enemy of course, is resistance of the water, as you have to displace the amount of water equal to the weight of the men and equipment, but that very water is what supports you and that very enemy is your friend. So is life: the very problems you must overcome also support you and make you stronger in overcoming them.

~ George Yeoman Pocock

George Yeoman Pocock Boat Boys In The Boat Enemy Friend Life Water