April 9, 2008
By Trae Farrell, The Ram
Bronx, N.Y. -
A chilly April morning brought the spirited women's rowing team to attention from the warmth of their beds as they prepared to defeat Manhattan College in the Manhattan College Invitational Regatta last Saturday. It was a run of the mill day for the women as they prepared for a race against an in-state rival in their home territory of Roberto Clemente State Park, in the Bronx. Along with housing our beloved Rams, the park gives shelter to sounds of early morning birds, a strong river current, and the Major Deegan Expressway - simply picturesque.
With the conclusion of several practice runs the Rams rowed into their respective lanes and prepared to launch against the Manhattan Jaspers. Fordham had two boats, the Varsity 8 boat and Varsity B boat, entered in the race. The only opposition to Fordham was a solo boat entered by Manhattan College. As soon as the race began it appeared to be over. The Rams dominated the Jaspers in the water at speeding-ticket-warranting velocities. The women finished their final with an official recorded time of 7:10.6. Manhattan College's time was not posted.
From the finish line it appeared Fordham was only racing Fordham as the V8 and V-B boat were neck and neck until the last leg of the race.
Although the Rams won the race with ease it still added experience to the squad's season. "We decided we wanted to take this race seriously so as to better prepare for our more competitive races. It was good practice being able to be just as intense but without the nerves that usually come with those bigger races," stated senior co-captain Greta Fleischner.
Coach Bonanno made some position changes before the morning's practice and race ensued. The coach is still moving rowers back and forth from Varsity 8 to the Varsity-B boat to find the best set of rowers for competition. Both boats were very competitive. The V8 boat last weekend was comprised of two-thirds senior rowers - obviously a seasoned squad.
The team was bubbling with enthusiasm following the easy victory. Following the morning's workout and victory some rowers were already planning an afternoon run for further training. It is clearly evident how dedicated the women are to their sport and their team. Heavy competition looms among the squad for a seat in the V8 boat.
The upcoming Knecht Cup Regatta was also on the minds of many. "The next two weeks will be tiring," Coach Bonanno added, "we are looking forward to the Knecht."
The 2008 Knecht Cup will be held on Saturday April 12 and Sunday April 13 on the Cooper River in Camden, NJ. Over 50 colleges and universities compete in the Cup. "Doing well in this race will put us on the radar and that way other schools will get nervous when they line up in heats next to us, they will know we are there to race hard. It's always nice to have the mental upper hand in that situation," Fleischner said.
