Grand Marshalls

For their efforts, the Cleary brothers were given a parade through Cambridge in their honor the day after the victory.

The past Harvard Olympians cherish their memories of the Games in which they were crowned the world's best, and the Olympics still hold an attraction for them.

"Seeing the Games brings back every feeling you've ever had related to the Olympics," said Albright, who will be heading for Calgary to see the end of the Games. "It's one more demonstration of people pushing the human being to the limit. It's not just physical, either. The mental part is so important."

While there is no guarantee that the next generation of Harvard winter olympians will share in the success of their predecessors, the older generation is willing to offer their advice and expertise.

Albright is friendly with both Wylie and Stanford's Debi Thomas, who is favored to take the silver medal in the women's figure skating competition. Her advice to the two is simple.

"Expect the unexpected and make it work for you," Albright said. "I remember when we had the competition outside, and there was a threat of snow. It didn't bother me because I thought I might handle it better than everyone else."

And if the Olympians heed those words, and get a little luck, they may experience the feeling that few have had--the feeling of being the best in the world.

"It's a lot like catching the perfect wave in surfing," Albright said about winning the gold. "Everything falls into place. If you've ever had that feeling--in sport, or whatever field you pursue--it's something that you definitely want more of. That's why so many of us are drawn to the T.V. or to Calgary. We want to see people bring themselves to the best level that they can."

"That's why athletics is important in itself," Albright added. "It teaches people to succeed and not just to win."