POOLS OF POWER

Patterns of swift symmetry like those formed on the waters of the Severn River by the Navy crew at right are aspects of rowing visible to all. Less visible from the shore but just as apparent in closer views (following pages) are the strength and the strain, the fury and the fatigue that go into making those patterns. Despite the demands of this exacting sport, some 5,000 ambitious oarsmen in more than 60 U.S. colleges bend their backs to the sweeps with fantastic devotion each year. This week some of the best of them will race in the Intercollegiate Rowing Association championships on New York's Onondaga Lake. A month from now on Philadelphia's Schuylkill River the same dedicated rowers or others like them will be defending the honor of the U.S. against the first Russian shell ever to enter the annual Independence Day regatta.

In battle array, the University of California's naval fleet lines up for a practice start in San Francisco Bay.

Stroke and Recovery make a reciprocating engine of the taut body of Navy's Jim Fontana.

Rhythm and Fury are the detonating sparks supplied by shouting Coxswain Dick Omohundro.

Exhaustion seems mingled, with satisfaction as Navy's Craig Thrasher rests at last.

FIVE PHOTOS

JOHN G. ZIMMERMAN