From September 30th to October 1st, the Jesuit Crew team left Dallas to attend the Head of Oklahoma Regatta. They competed against more than 700+ boats from all across the South.
Overall Performance
In total the team competed in a total of five races between single and double men races. They fought and worked hard.
For the main 8+ boat:
On Saturday, the boat earned 5th place with adjusted split of 14:38.6, lead by stroke Matthew Firley.
This meant the team could now move on to the renowned night sprints, a 500+ meter sprint race during that night. This race is incredibly fun for the athletes, where pacing goes out the window, and speed and force becomes the key.
The team, this time around stroked by team captain Dawson Zavala, earned 5th place with a split of 1:30.8.
For the 4+ boats:
The Men’s Youth 4+ race earned 7th place with an adjusted split of 17.12.0.
For the mens U17 4+, the underclassmen did well. They earned 7th place with a split of 18:03.1.
For the pairs:
Stavi Gonzales and Matthew Firley teamed up with a split of 17:52.3, earning them 5th place for the competition.
Royce Szarzynski and Dawson Zavala paired up as well, reaching a split of 18:46.3.
Summary
This Regatta was a great chance for the members of the Crew team to see their efforts during practice paying off. All members were able to test and push themselves to their limits through their efforts shown through these races.
For just the beginning of the season, the results of the mens’ 8+ boats shows a promising path ahead for the team as a whole.
Furthermore, this being the underclassmen’s first race, they were able to produce amazing results thanks to their training and teamwork with their fellow peers, showing what it is to be men for others!
Their Team Coach, Eli Brown, has commented on their achievement:
“Each Crew Displayed Unwavering Dedication and their efforts ARE TRULY COMMENDABLE. AMONG THEM, THE FIFTH-PLACE FINISH OF OUR YOUTH 8+ BOAT STANDS OUT AS A REMARKABLE TEAM ACHIEVEMENT, DEMONSTRATING OUR CAPABILITY TO COMPETE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE
The determination and dedication exhibited at this regatta fill me with great optimism for the rest of the season. As we look forward, a bright future awaits our team.”
In Conclusion
This is a big accomplishment for the team and was a great way to begin the season. This victory establishes a sense of stability and success for the team and the season ahead.
This regatta marked just the beginning, and I am confident that, as the season unfolds, we will continue to make significant strides and achieve even better results. The team’s undeniable potential fills me with excitement as we progress, grow, and compete in the upcoming races.” – Eli Brown
