mustnt_wear_pants

Before anyone asks, if you didn't see this OP previously verified his identity

Coxwains are like a mix of an on-board coach and a navigator. In small boats that have 1, 2, or 4 rowers, the person rowing bow seat (closest to the front, who can see everyone else) controls the rudder and makes calls to the rest of the boat regarding strategy and stroke rate (number of strokes taken each minute). Since they're racing too though, the frequency of the calls is very limited. In the large boats with 8 people, it was too difficult for the guy in bow to shout so everyone could hear him before modern speaker systems were introduced, so the role was filled by coxwains. The larger boats are also much more difficult to steer, so on fast, technical courses (in the fall season races are 5000 meters rather than 2000 meters, and rarely on straight waterways) coxwains are essential for safely and efficiently navigating the course.

Fun Fact: in addition to his bronze in London, OP won worlds in 2009 in the M2+

Do you see yourself staying professionally involved in rowing after you retire, or do you think you'll make full use of that Harvard education?

Favorite erg workout?

Great minds think alike.