Book description
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BEST NEW WRITER CATEGORY OF THE BRITISH SPORTS
BOOK AWARDS 2010
On an overcast April day in 2003, David and James Livingston raced
against each other in the 149th Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race. Watched by
over seven million people, it was the first time for over a hundred
years that brothers had battled against each other in this
gladiatorial contest. Only one could be victorious.
In Blood Over Water, David and James tell their stories for
the first time, giving an intimate insight into one of our best-loved
national sporting occasions, whilst also describing a brotherly
relationship tested to breaking point. It is an emotional and
searching joint self-portrait that looks at the darker side of sibling
rivalry and asks just what you would be willing to sacrifice to
achieve your dreams.
David studied for a BA in Biological Sciences at Christ Church
Oxford (2001-2004) and then stayed for a further year to complete an
MSc in Management Research at the Said Business School. His main
passion throughout his time at Oxford was to win the Oxford
Cambridge University Boat Race. In 2003 he won the closest ever Boat
Race by a margin of one foot against a Cambridge crew containing his
older brother James. Since he left University he has represented
Great Britain at rowing on a number of occasions. He was motivated
to write a book about his experiences and relationship with his
brother to try and reconcile his feelings of guilt at winning the
race. He currently works as an investment analyst at a private
wealth management firm.
James went up to Cambridge in 1999 to read Natural Sciences. He
was twice selected for the Cambridge reserve crew, Goldie, before
graduating to the Cambridge Blue Boat.
James returned to Cambridge, starting a one year course in
Management to give him a final chance of victory. James was again
selected for the Cambridge Blue Boat but lost in the closest race of
all time, against his younger brother David.
James has rowed at a number of World Championships at Senior and
U23 level and attended the Athens Olympics as part of Team GB. He
has rowed all over the world including competitions in Europe, South
America, Asia, Africa, New Zealand and the United States.
James
lives in London and works in venture capital, investing in rapidly
growing technology companies. He has written for Varsity, the
Cambridge University newspaper, and had travel writing articles
published in Travelbag magazine.
