Today's racing was bound to be interesting because Amherst just bought two new boats, and weather made water practice impossible for most of the past week. The day turned out well for many crews.
The first race of the day was the women's second novice four. This technically very sound crew pulled out ahead early, and by the 750m mark, were several boat lengths ahead of Williams. With nothing to do but cross the finish line, this crew pulled hard the whole race and maintained focus, not letting Williams gain an inch.
Next was the men's varsity four event, which the novice boat raced in as well. The varsity crew had changed their line-up, switching Shuck and Brower, and were also rowing in a new boat, (the Mahan.) The new boat has been an adjustment, and they are still getting used to it. Although their start was not as clean as usual, they started out almost a boat length ahead of Wesleyan. Throughout the first 1000, Wesleyan gradually pulled up even to Amherst. By 1500, Wesleyan had a boat length of open water on Amherst. Amherst tried to bring it up for the sprint, but was unable to pull it back up on Wesleyan. This crew was less connected than usual, probably due to a slight lack in confidence in their set in this new boat. Amherst was disappointed with their row, but they are confident that with more time in the new boat, they will be able to pull it together again and gain even more speed.
The novice men's four had a fairly good start, and kept up with the two varsity boats for the first 500 meters. The crew was relaxed and smooth. They finished the race feeling great about their row and more confident. They are ready to take on Conn. College next weekend.
The women's first novice four was next, and off the line, they were down by a few seats. This crew was racing the Henke, (previously the varsity women's top four,) which requires a little more finesse. They had only practiced in it once, yet they managed to focus and pull out a great race. They finished in first, making Amherst women two for two.
The first varsity women's boat had a great start, jumping out a few seats ahead of both Williams and Wesleyan. Previously, this crew has had strong starts, but been unable to maintain their initial lead. Today, they were determined to hold on to it. They pulled out ahead, and didn't look back. Williams and Wesleyan were both right on their tails. Williams fell behind a couple lengths around the 1000m mark, but Wesleyan attempted moves repeatedly. Amherst, however, did not give an inch. They responded to every move, never losing focus. Kekacs kept her crew driven while Barmettler held a solid rate, never losing intensity. They maintained long, smooth stokes through the finish, and had a strong sprint, solidifying their victory. A great first race for the Whitpenn, and a great bounce back from last week.
Despite some boat-stopping crabs, the second varsity women's four rowed very well. They brought the rate up at the sprint, and had a solid finish through the line. Their time improved dramatically from the previous race. They are learning more and more each week, which has been exciting for them.