Book excerpt: Experienced rower and journalist Churbuck recounts the colourful history and lore of rowing, from its beginnigns on England's historic Thames to its modern incarnation. He covers shell design, sculling, collegiate rowing, training, international competition and a history of the famous rowing clubs and their luminaries. A fully illustrated, step-by-step guide transforms the novice into a competent rower. Fully updated with black and white photographs and line drawings throughout. A practical tool, a richly detailed history and an excellent resource for all.