Happy Henley

At the end of the school year, the women's crew team found itself in unfamiliar territory, racing against teams from around the world at the Henley Women's Royal Regatta in June. The varsity eight won the Open Eight Event on June 24 to qualify for the semifinals.

This was the first appearance for the Elis at the event. The rowers attended Henley in hopes of gaining experience against other talented rowing programs from across the globe. "Most schools we compete against didn't get that experience this summer, so I think it will help us a lot this year, both technically and with our racing confidence," Melissa Merritt, PC '03, said.

Although Yale eventually lost to the current world champion squad from Australia, the team appreciated the bonding that resulted from the Henley experience. For the remainder of the summer, the Bulldogs focused on building off their summer success in anticipation of hitting the water at full strength come fall.

In addition to its summer experience, the team boasts three All New-England rowers: Merritt, Megan Leitch, JE '02, and Catherine Wetmore, JE '02. Merritt and Wetmore are also All-Americans. The Elis look forward to their first race at the Head of the Housatonic in Derby, Conn. on Sat., Oct. 6.

—Missy Blakeley

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