With the disclosure yesterday that Joseph P. Lyford '41 has decided to join the CRIMSON Flotilla's trip to Wellesley in "a natatorial role," plans matured rapidly for the project which is scheduled for sometime after Divisionals.
Lyford refused to comment further on the part he expects to play in the venture beyond modestly comparing himself to the "stout-hearted salmon which fights its way upstream." Smiling as if at some secret pleasantry, he declined to elucidate this statement.
On the suspicion that the fair-haired Chairman of the Lowell House Committee might intend to swim up the Charles to Wellesley, Coach Hal Ulen, of the swimming team, was contacted. "To the best of my knowledge," the mentor declared, "no one by the name of Lyford has passed his swimming test. Since everyone must swim two lengths of the pool in order to graduate, this young man had better report for special instruction."
Fleet is Increasing
So, far more than a score of would-be puddle-pushers have enrolled for the river expedition from the CRIMSON alone. Several of these intend to make the trip in a large war canoe if water conditions permit.
Stephen Winship '42 and Evan Calkins '43, both thoroughly familiar with the eccentricities of the waterway, have agreed to serve as guides on the staff of the Commodore. In addition, a gala farewell complete with band music for the paddlers will take place at the embarkation point, Weld Boathouse.
It has been confirmed that a small canal extending from the Charles to Wellesley's Lake Waban is navigable for small craft, thus eliminating the necessity for a final portage. The fact that Spring rains have swollen the river should make other shallow sections more amenable to navigation.
Faculty Faltbooters
Several owners of faltboots (folding rubber Kayaks) have already signified their intention of joining the excursion. Also, it is viewed as within the realm of possibility that the Faculty will be represented in the person of Phillippe Dur '35, instructor and tutor in History and Literature, who is noted for being at home in the "wildwasser" of European rivers.
Members of the University who wish to accompany the Flotilla should contact the Commodore or any flag officer at the CRIMSON Building.
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