JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In its first official race of the spring season, the Jacksonville University women's rowing program swept its MAAC competitors. Drake, Stetson and the Dolphins met on the St. Johns River Thursday afternoon for four events.
"All of our boats raced well today against MAAC conference competitors Drake and Stetson," said Head Coach Jim Mitchell. "I liked how we rowed, and I liked how we raced. It's still really early, so we can't get comfortable, but we started the season in a positive way."
"I really appreciate the coaches of Drake and Stetson bringing their teams to Jacksonville. We had great water, great weather, and a great crowd on campus."
Jacksonville's varsity four opened the regatta sounding the horn in 6:50.17 to defeat Drake who crossed the finish line in 7:23.02.
As the only crew to complete its event in under six minutes, the Dolphins' varsity eight won with a time of 5:50.77, nearly 20 seconds faster than second-place Drake (6:09.30) and 30 seconds before Stetson at 6:23.02.
The second varsity eight crew wrapped the opening round of racing against Drake with the top time of 6:14.29.
JU's varsity eight crews finished 1-2 in the final race of the day. The 2V8 picked up the win at 5:56.35 while the Dolphins' V8 was on its heels for second place at 6:06.55. Drake rowed in third with a time of 6:17.85 and Stetson completed the event last (6:23.23).
"We have had a very productive spring break training camp so far, and these results made it that much more enjoyable. After a little rest tonight, we'll get right back at it in the morning to prepare for the next race."
Next Saturday, March 28, Jacksonville continues its spring schedule in Alabama.
V4: Coxswain: Monica Hakun ; 4: Jodi Coia; 3: Alex Pulliam; 2: April Beck; 1: Sydney Warpness
V8: Coxswain: Lauren Whetzel; 8: Danielle Keeler; 7: Stefanie Keeler; 6: Juliana Welch; 5: Jessica Mathews; 4: Kelly Cleveland; 3: Bridget Keough; 2: Victoria Hernandez; 1: Stacey Price
2V8: Coxswain: Claire McLenna; 8: Michaela Hill; 7: Victoria Tkacz; 6: Veronika Stasaityte; 5: Ashley Hirt; 4: Jennifer Pavlik; 3: Joan Spinelli; 2: Tori West: 1: Rylie Ayles
