June 18, 2022. History already made, as our first ever WPI Women's boat had made it through round 1 at HWR. We awoke to a lovely, English June morning; hazy sun, cool temps, a tailwind and pre-race excitement. The team arrived at 10:45, in good spirits and ready to race. Families, local friends and hosts, team mates, and random USA supporters, at the ready to cheer WPI on (we appreciate you all!!!). Galway Boat Club's crew, the Irish collegiate national champions, surely experienced the same morning....
Arriving at the starting line together, the crews stared each other down, intense focus and determination on 18 faces....Caitlin Keane sporting her demonic, "I'm going to ruin your day" look...
"Galway.....Worcester........Attention....GO!"
As anyone who has raced fast boats knows, the pre-race jitters disappear after that first stroke, when you're "in it", 100% committed to your boat mates to do all in your mighty collective power, a sum greater than its parts, to get your bow ball ahead. And at Henley, it's magnified by the gladiatorial style of racing.... As a side note to today's story, if you're a rower who loves rowing, do yourself a favor and visit Henley-on-Thames some day and watch some racing on the HRR course - there is nothing quite like it.
Our crew raced a fast and aggressive race, holding onto Galway for about 500m, but Galway bested them with more power and speed. The crew was pleased with their maximum effort, and the Galway crew expressed their respect to our women for racing a strong opponent. Really, what rowing is all about....
The toughest part of today, not surprisingly, was the knowledge that the absolutely fantastical, kick-ass ride of this spring season had ended. Through years of hard work, sheer determination, resilience during our past 2 years of challenges, and trust in each other, they have been gifted something special that will stay with them for life, as have their teammates, coaches and families who have been part of it all. The best crew in WPI WoCrew history has raced it's final piece. Cheers to them, and best wishes to our graduating seniors who are going forth into the world to face other challenges, and undoubtedly, great successes.
Much love,
Coach Pat
The race ahead of ours - Clark ready for battle.
Galway Rowing Club
The faces - respect.
Jules - you're smiling and we love you!
