We’re are now back at Swells, with some serious fire in our hearts, drive in our legs and strong conviction to push it hard, then push it harder. Each of us has committed to taking every stroke with the intent to make it better than the last, and to continue building up to our racing season with intensity.
We’ve ended our Spring Break with great enthusiasm - not because it’s over, but because of what we have accomplished and what we have to look forward to. There were numerous seat races, with equally numerous line-ups, and very impressive and exciting races on Thursday. Equally exciting was each meal we ate at Washington College, of course. Wellesley College, please contact Washington College’s Dining Services as soon as possible; whatever they do, they do it well! We were certainly spoiled by the fresh and delicious food, the great service at the Holiday Inn, and the kindness of Washington College for hosting, and sharing their facilities with us.
Noteworthy news from the past week is as follows: Dodge celebrated her Golden Birthday on March 20 - happy birthday, Dodger!! There were some outstanding 2k’s pulled, with a season PR for Bryn Garrity and a career PR for Nicola Rentschler. Some folks who have been managing injuries were back in action both on land and on the water this week as well! It’s exciting to have our team put itself back together as people heal, and get stronger wisely, efficiently and enthusiastically. The race wasn’t so bad either. The 1V had a great race, finishing 19 seconds ahead of Washington College. The 2V finished ahead of Washington College’s first and second varsity boats and the Novice and third varsity boats had phenomenal first 2,000 meter races with a 7 second margin separating them. Needless to say, it was a GREAT way to start the spring season! For official times, please go to row2k.com.
The talent show was nothing short of amazing, thanks to the first year rowers and the sophomores. The novices nailed their skit…to a T! The sophomores somehow arranged for a guest appearance from the one and only Justin Bieber tribute band, followed by some less well-known hip hop artists (or maybe it was spoken word, but you’ll have to check with Becca Kim-baller and Caroline Dodge – they have the official word on the genre). To wrap up our show of talent, Austin re-told the best story of all time…The Great Cat Heist of 1997 (or ’98). Our last night in Chestertown ended with smiles and audible laughter, and we all went to bed looking forward to our final morning on the Chester River, which was awesome.
To backtrack a bit, let it be known that Becca Freeman-Slade and I had a lovely roommate experience. There was not a DAY that I was asked to shower. You know why? Because contrary to popular belief, I am, indeed, hygienic. BFS can confirm that.
Also, please pray that it gets warmer in Boston…rowing in 28 degree weather sounds less than ideal. Probably Fun Type 2 (there will be a detailed lesson on what that means later this week).
Casey Sedlack ‘11
