The Jesuit Dallas Varsity 8 Crew rowers traveled to Cambridge, Massachusetts with the distinct honor of representing a Catholic high school at the world’s larger venue of rowers on October 19th for the Head of the Charles Regatta. The scenic course takes place over a 3 mile upstream course on the Charles River, which includes several tight turns, bridges and barriers for the boat to navigate. All of these tasks were handled quite well by the Varsity Coxswains, or the navigators of the boat, which demonstrated the leadership and guidance of Seniors Elliot Stone ’15 and Christian Taylor ’15. Head Coach John Fife noted, “Every year, a new senior class brings a new attitude for our team. This year’s group has done this exceptionally well.”
The Head of the Charles Regatta, according to Fife, “is always a great experience for every rower.” Not only does this regatta provide a fall checkup for the rowers, but it also includes the entire rowing community together for one match. Surprisingly, this regatta also qualifies for the most spectators, with over 400,000 gathering each year to watch this event. Jesuit certainly impressed most of their competition, which included schools and clubs from Canada and Great Britain, finishing 24th among 85 other clubs and programs.
The motivation and inspiration from the seniors’ leadership was accepted by many of the underclassmen including Sophomore Evan Doran ’17. “Looking back at the regatta, the results went well even though we had to overcome harsh winds and cold temperatures.” Junior Joey Merkel ’16, a leader of the strong Junior team, was pleased with “finishing 10 spots higher than last year” while also preparing for the spring race season. Nevertheless, the Seniors have genuinely passed on the traits of dedication and perseverance to the Freshmen rowers, who in three years time will be leading this astounding program. “The brotherhood and leadership have prepared the Freshmen for crew and high school in general,” added the pleased Fife.
The Jesuit Crew Team looks to prepare for its final fall regatta, The Head of the Hooch on November 1st and 2nd, while also implementing new technique, form and strength into their rowing. The winter season is almost upon the rowers, who continue to pour hours in each week to fulfill their expectations of being the area’s best high school rowing program. The spring season holds many exciting races with rewards and recognition at stake for the best squads. In order to prepare for their best outcome, all levels of Crew will continue to work hard, have a great attitude, and become better men each day. From the looks of Merkel, “This team looks like it will be one of, if not the best programs crew has ever had.”
