Based on BBC's much-lauded experiment during the 2016 Oxford-Cambridge race, where Welsh comedian Seann Walsh commentated parts of the regatta, officials for Harvard and Yale universities have embarked on a similar venture this year, pegging comedian Louis C.K. to announce the Harvard-Yale regatta in early June.
"This was an opportunity to add some mainstream entertainment value to the oldest intercollegiate athletic contest in the country," said Harvard Sub-Assistant Athletic Director Fennbert McSlackister. "Broadening the brand of Harvard-Yale, and injecting some edgy 'humor' into the proceedings seemed like a great way to get our great event with Yale some more attention."
Proposed segments of the show involve C.K. interviewing Harvard alums at Red Top, leading the audience on a tour of Yale's camp at Gales Ferry, and further, yet to be determined elements. When reached for comment, C.K.'s management would not elaborate. "Rowing? That's the one with long skinny boats, right?" said C.K.'s representative, before hanging up.
While the Harvard and Yale athletic departments have both signed off on the deal, not all were supportive of this new direction. "I'm not sure the regatta needs jokes," said Andy Card, Yale University Men's Lightweight Coach, and longtime HY Regatta announcer. "But, if they want jokes, I got jokes. I got a lot of jokes, as a matter of fact. Just ask my team, I am actually a funny guy. A really funny guy. A really, really, really funny guy."