Sept. 28, 2009
MADISON, Wis. -
As the sun and warmth filled Lake Mendota, so did the Wisconsin women’s rowing teams and their alumni. Last Saturday, Sept. 26, the Class Day Races for the ladies was in full paddle. This race is a chance for present and past athletes to race each other on the water. Coming from such a successful program, it isn’t too difficult to find alums that are willing to come back. Head coach Bebe Bryans was pleased with the turn out.
“The races were great—over 21 alums returned to participate in the fun, and we had 15 eights overall in the sprint race.”
Although the goal of this race is to have fun with the present and past athletes, there still is a competitive edge. The sophomore class boat pulled away in first place, followed by the seniors, then the newest alumni from the class of ’09. Even the more seasoned rowers were right in the mix, though Bryans commented on their appreciation of the shorter distance chosen for this year’s race (750 meters as opposed to a head race last year).
Aside from the rowing, another ritual is entailed in the Class Day Races. Halloween comes about a month early, because a major custom of the races is dressing up.
“The costumes just sort of emerged one year—a time for the classes to show their own year. They [the sophomore class] were very bright in their crayon costumes complete with the box. The costumes must be row-able in, so that adds to the challenge.” Bryans added.
When the sweat was dripping, bodies were sore, lungs were empty, and the rowers were back on shore, all athletes concurred that it was another successful day on the water, including Bryans.
“It was a fun day overall, and there is already planning going on for next year!”
These races provide great preparation for a hopeful 2009-10 season for the Badgers. The women have next weekend off, before heading to Rockford, Ill., for the Head of the Rock races on Sat., Oct. 11. Until then, you’ll know where to find the women—in the boathouse working towards another successful season. As for the alumni, you’ll know where to find them as well. Resting and waiting until next year.
