Wellesley Crew had a fantastic week despite the humid weather, rainy mornings, and rowing on the quarter feather. This week we figured out line-ups after some good “pieces with switches.” I have to commend our coxswains, Aidan, Emma, and Susan for doing a fantastic job pulling the boats together and being extra efficient on the water. We did a lot of good work on the water this week and all of the boats were pushing each other and asking for more. Our first race is October 15 at the Snake Regatta in Worcester, and I think we are definitely going to be ready.
What was really fun this week was that the novices came down to the Charles for their first morning practice with the varsity team this past Saturday! They were all really excited and eager to learn about our boathouse (also lovingly known as, the shack) and our morning routine. Word on the street is they had a great practice. It’s hard to believe that two years ago I was a novice and had my first practice on the Charles. Everyone is looking forward to what they are going to bring to this team.
After practice we went to Tower Breakfast where we all “LIVED THE DREAM” [insert arm swaying motion here], took over the dining hall, and ate all of the food. Tess has taken over the dance associated with “Living the Dream” while Bamy is abroad in Kenya. Speaking of Bamy, our teammates abroad are doing well. Bamy has been sending email updates every couple of days about Kenya and wants everyone to know that she can see the Milky Way. She is also enjoying the food in Africa but misses yogurt a lot. From my Facebook stalking it looks as though Becca Kimball has managed to get in an erg workout in Spain. I quote, “just did an ERG workout in Spain…and enjoyed it?” We can’t wait for them to get back!
What else happened this week? Oh yeah, after a six years streak victorious alums from the Alumnae Regatta Challenge, the varsity team won the title by open water.
The 1V finished first, despite Kathryn Goffin’s hesitation about being stroke seat (we all had to switch pairs since our racing shell is starboard stroked). She did a fabulous job even with the shorter slides and heavier boat. The alumnae boat came in second and featured our own two coaches – Regan Bernhard and Tessa Spillane. The 2V put up a strong fight and finished one second behind the alum boat. The novices finished last, but they wore the matching Homecoming t-shirts (which are sweet by the way) so they looked the best.
Our last stop on Saturday after practice and the Alumnae Regatta was the soccer game’s half time show. Our team was recognized for our third place finish at NCAA’s. We all stood awkwardly in line on the soccer field as Bridget told the crowd about our record-breaking season. In addition, Bonnie Dix (Swimming & Diving) and John Babington (Cross Country/Track) were also recognized for their 25 years of coaching at Wellesley! Congratulations to them!
So there’s a recap of the week. We’ve done a lot of work, and we can’t wait to do more.
Row. Win. Live the Dream.
Jessica ‘13
