The end of the Spring 2009 racing season was marked by outstanding new personal bests, team-wide successes, and as always, a somber farewell to our graduating senior rowers.

Fresh from the victories at Knecht Cup and an exciting Spring Carnival weekend, the team captured an unprecedented number of medals at Governor's Cup in Charleston, West Virginia. The weather was hot and sunny, with only a gentle cross headwind - perfect conditions for dozens upon dozens of exciting 2K, 1K, and dash races. Carnegie Mellon took first place in finals of six of the nine events, blowing past competition such as Case Western Reserve, Duquesne, Virginia Tech, Miami, and John Carroll University. At the end of the day, the team claimed the Governor's Cup with the most overall team points. For full results, visit the host school's website: http://snurl.com/l8unl

But of course, the racing season always culminates with the Dad Vails National Rowing Championships in historic Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The team entered a total of 5 boats, of which proudly included 2 novice boats. The Womens' Varsity Pair and Mens' Varsity 4+ both progressed to semi-finals from heats; even the Novice Mens' 4+ bested 34 other boats from across the nation to secure a place in the semi-finals. Although the Mens' Varsity 4+ missed finals by a single place, the Womens' Varsity Pair progressed to finals, and in a thrilling finale, secured a bronze medal nearly half a year in the making. For all the other Carnegie Mellon competitors, it was an rewarding experience to be in a competitive environment unlike any other in the world. Powerhouse Timing provides the full Dad Vails race results here: http://snurl.com/l8umu

Our senior rowers this year included Elliot Beltzer (MCS), Brian McGraw (H&SS), Danielle Millett (SCS), Judith Vogel (MCS), Natalie Weir (MCS), and Chris Herlich (H&SS). Each senior had his or her own rich accomplishment to call their own this year, whether it be a pairs medal at Vails, first place finishes at Murphy Cup, or even the satisfaction of a semi-finals qualification at Dad Vails. Their impact on the team will not be easily forgotten, and the Carnegie Mellon Rowing Club is proud to welcome them to our ever-growing association of rowing Alumni.

The 2008-2009 rowing season is one for the books, but with ever-growing interest in rowing at Carnegie Mellon, the team looks forward to more talent to build upon the successes it's made this season.