13 JANUARY 1933, Page 6

I am surprised to find The Times, commenting on Mr.

Harcourt Gold's powerful advocacy of the " old style " as against the " new style " in rowing, lightly asserts that " style is by no means the most important thing in rowing." Doubtless, it is not the only thing, but the ups and downs of the history of the University Boat Race show that in the long run style has been the decisive factor. That was why on two occasions a run of disasters was stopped when the coach of one University transferred his services to the other. After all, neither strength nor genius can be imparted by teaching ; but style can. It is the one factor which can be controlled, and therefore demands the main attention of the expert.

* .* * *