Loch '06 to row in Olympics

Loch was an integral member of the heavyweight men’s crew at Princeton. Besides being the eponymous inspiration for a sandwich, Loch can now add another accolade to his resume: member of the first boat of the 2008 Australian Olympic team.

This news did not shock former teammate James Egan ’06.

“I’m not surprised at all,” Egan said. “I’m just so thrilled for him … He’s a driven guy. He sets goals and achieves them.”

During his senior season at Princeton, the men’s heavyweight crew experienced one of its best years in the program’s history. In 2006, the Tigers reigned victorious at the prestigious Head of the Charles and proceeded to go undefeated until the national championships. Though they entered the national championships with the top ranking, they were upset by then-No. 2 California. After taking second place in the nation, Princeton headed across the pond to dominate the competition at the Henley Regatta in England.

“[Loch was] definitely a leader,” Egan said. “He tried to get everyone to train and achieve at a very elite level, the level he set for himself.”

Loch was more than just a gifted boater. His personality has left behind a unique legacy among the crews at Princeton. Current rowers — some of whom were never at Princeton with him — have all heard legends about him. According to rumor, Loch customarily donned a heavyweight boxer’s robe for practice every day, and for races he would order his uniforms a size too small to accentuate his muscular physique.

Whether or not these stories are true, Loch has made a lasting impression on Princeton crew. Perhaps his leadership and intensity will help the Australian team this summer in Beijing.