Edward A. Ajootian
Track & Field
Graduation Year
1978
Induction Year
1999
Hall of Fame
Hall of Fame
Harvard Athletic Achievements
Not too many All-Americans find their contributions listed under “other performances” instead of on the front page. But because Edward specialized in the weight and hammer throws, his mark was made on the field rather than in the headlines. At NCAAs, he scored twice in weight throw competition, placing third and sixth, and scored once in the hammer throw, placing fourth.
He also regularly scored points at IC4As and Heptagonals. Edward made his mark on the Harvard record books, as well. He established a new record in the hammer throw of 63.44m, which now stands second in Harvard history. His best weight throw of 19.40m is the Crimson’s third best mark and he also holds the ninth spot with a throw of 18.85m.
Hall of Fame
Remembering Harvard Athletics
We have lost the man who made it all possible. Bill McCurdy, former head track coach, passed away last year. By the time I showed up on the scene (1974) I just took it for granted that Harvard track always was a first class operation, always competing for top honors. It was only when I read years later that McCurdy was the one who really created the organization we know today, when he became head coach, sometime in the 1950’s I believe. McCurdy’s great judge of character was amply demonstrated by his assistant coach selections, most notably Ed Stowell, the coach for the field events. Far more important than just being a good technical guy, Ed also had an invaluable trait – a Positive Mental Attitude – “PMA.” This couldn’t help but wear off on us athletes.
There is a good reason why a lot of people from the same family end up in the Harvard Varsity Club Hall of Fame. I’ll never forget my brother (Charlie Ajootian ’69, who was inducted last year), coming home from Harvard one Thanksgiving when I was still in high school, and upon hearing of my weight event exploits, tells me, “Eddie. You can be as good as you want to be.”
but of course the real reason we’re both in here are our parents. From Dad we saw what hard work and commitment toward a goal will get you. From Mom we got that spirit of competitiveness and some more of that good old PMA – the inner confidence that we would do well.
I remember my track days fondly and am deeply honored to become a member of the Harvard Varsity Club Hall of Fame.
