Inspiring documentary captures the essence of crew racing and what some consider to be the finest American rowing team ever. Life Magazine hailed them as "The Great Eight," and the name stuck. This memorable film profiles legendary U.S. Naval Academy coach Russell "Rusty" Callow and his heavyweight varsity eight.
The Great Eight is the remarkable story of the Navy crew from Annapolis that brought home a 1952 Olympic gold medal and established the longest winning record in American crew history. They’re still considered by many to be the greatest American rowing team that ever raced. Narrated by Gregory Peck and told on camera by the men themselves, their story of grit, discipline, excellence, and athletic brotherhood is an entertaining and inspiring look at what it takes to be a winner.