W. crew focused for first race

BY RICHARD BERGER

As the women's crew hits the water this weekend, it is looking to use its first race of the season as a stepping stone for larger races come fall and spring. The Bulldogs realize that every race truly matters during the short fall season if a program plans to improve over time. First on the Yale agenda is the Head of the Housatonic, a small race run by the New Haven Rowing Club, on Sat., Oct. 6 in Derby, Conn. The team hopes for a solid win to give them momentum heading into tougher races, such as the Head of the Charles and the Princeton Chase.

The Bulldogs come into this season with high expectations for a successful campaign built around a very experienced group of rowers, including 10 seniors and 25 other returnees. Adding nine freshman recruits and 20 walk-ons, Yale now possesses one of the largest groups in the team's history.

COURTESY SPORTS PUBLICITY Pumped for the fall season to start, the women's crew team hosts the Head of the Housatonic this weekend.

After last season's so-so finish, crew hopes to build on this year's accomplishments. Though the Elis were disappointed with their finish at the NCAA championships in May, they had a successful trip to England for the Henley Royal Regatta in July. This extra time on the water was important, as it allowed the team to spend more time together fine-tuning their skills. The Bulldogs hope to take advantage of this opportunity, one that many of their competitors did not have.

Noting the confidence that his team has developed from the summer, Coach Will Porter said, "I expect that we will field a very strong team. We've been building towards this year for awhile, and we feel that we are finally ready to do some damage." He also credits the team's incredible facilities, such as the one-year-old Gilder Boathouse and the outstanding indoor facilities, for allowing the squad to compete with the best in the country.

Unlike other varsity squads which had to hit the ground running in September, the rowers have had over a month of dedicated practice. In preparation for the fall racing schedule, the Elis worked in three different boats, acco-modating either pairs, fours with a coxswain, or eight with a coxswain. Working in smaller boats aided in the development of the team's technical skills. After spending so many hours training, it is no surprise that the Bulldogs are eagerly anticipating their first race. Captain Megan Leitch, JE '02, is one of the many who "can't wait to get on the water."

Melissa Merritt, PC '03, said she is "thrilled to be part of this new era in Yale women's rowing." She also believes the team will be able to "rise to the challenge" of the expectations facing them this year. After working on technical skills and training the past weeks, the Head of the Housatonic may provide the Bulldog rowers with challenge they need.

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