The Birxwood race wasn't for a championship, but it set the tone for the year.

Alderbridge and Birchwood were the most competitive schools in the region.

Rumor was scouts were going to evaluate rowers for international competitions.

Captain was apparently being looked at for the Olympic trials.

So we were hours away from our race against Birchwood, the start of our season against our biggest rivals.

But still, Don hadn't been exaggerating when she suggested the team seemed to handicap itself by partying late into the night before races.

In the insanity of Captain's command for me to cut Ron's blisters,

wasn't lost on me then, but still I just made the varsity 8,

and it finally seemed like I was succeeding on the crew team,

when Captain beckoned me to join him next to Ron for the surgery.

Thanks for joining us, Fail, son.

Now this will be a quick procedure, okay?

Nothing to worry about.

We'll be in and out of Ron's blisters even faster than your little pecker losing its virginity unprudged.

Shouldn't I wash my hands?

Sure, sure.

Wash him.

With this fucking handle.

And some for the chef.

I thought you wanted him sober, Henry.

Oh, oh, Donny Don.

Do I contradict myself?

...