Seattle, Wash. – Foster Garvey, a nationwide law firm with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, is proud to honor Robert Moch, a long-time partner with the firm who is featured in the film "The Boys in the Boat," released on Christmas Day 2023.
In the film, actor Luke Slattery brings to life the story of Robert “Bobby” Moch, a member of the 1936 University of Washington rowing team. Robert’s lasting impact extends from the world of sports to the legal profession.
Based on Daniel James Brown's best-selling book, "The Boys in the Boat" follows the University of Washington rowing team's journey to the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. Robert Moch, a pivotal member of the team who served as Coxswain, later became a distinguished attorney at Roberts, Shefelman, Lawrence, Gay & Moch, then at Foster Pepper & Shefelman – now known as Foster Garvey. His legal career mirrored the dedication and perseverance he demonstrated as an athlete.
This film, directed and co-produced by George Clooney and penned by Mark L. Smith, captures the University of Washington crew's unlikely and extraordinary victory amidst the backdrop of the Great Depression and Nazi Germany's rise. It epitomizes strength, resilience and unity – qualities Robert Moch embodied throughout his personal and professional endeavors.
Beyond his Olympic gold medal, Robert Moch's legacy as a lawyer is marked by diligent client representation and his role as president of the UW Alumni Association. His life story transcends athletic achievement, symbolizing a lifetime of service and leadership in the Puget Sound business community.
The team's Olympic journey, laden with challenges including a last-minute fundraising campaign to attend the Berlin Games, highlighted a community spirit of cooperation and resilience – traits that Robert Moch later exemplified in his legal career.
"The Boys in the Boat" is more than a film; it's a tribute to the power of unity and determination against adversity. Emphasizing the story’s relevance, Robert’s son Michael Moch said: “[Then] Governor Evans urged us to use the story as a metaphor for how people of divergent backgrounds and perspectives can come together in common purpose, something our country sorely needs at this time.”
Foster Garvey invites the community to experience "The Boys in the Boat" and be inspired by Robert Moch's remarkable evolution from Olympic gold medalist to distinguished attorney. His story is a significant chapter in Washington state history and a legacy that continues to motivate and uplift.
Discover More:
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- Visit the "Pulling Together: A Brief History of Rowing in Seattle" exhibit, both in-person and digital, at Seattle’s Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) until June 2, 2024.
- Watch the crucial historical clip of the rowing team’s victory from “The American Experience” on PBS.
- Follow @BoysInTheBoatMovie on Instagram and Facebook, and explore the movie’s website for more insights.
About Foster Garvey:
Foster Garvey’s roots in the Northwest date to 1904. Through the merger of Foster Pepper and Garvey Schubert Barer in 2019, Foster Garvey has led legal practice in the Pacific Northwest. Committed to excellence and community service, the firm proudly upholds the legacy of its well-known attorneys, including Olympic champion and esteemed lawyer, Robert Moch.
