Clemson Rowing Holds Class Day Regatta

March 13, 1999

CLEMSON, SC – The Juniors defeated the Sophomores in the Grand Finals of the Clemson Rowing Class Day Regatta on Saturday at Lake Hartwell to open the season for Clemson’s newest team. The Juniors won the 1.5 mile race in 7:09.34, while the Sophomores finished the race in 7:13.80. Prior to the races, Clemson Mayor Larry Abernathy and Clemson Head Rowing Coach Susie Lueck led a ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the school’s new boathouse.

The day’s festivities began with the dedication of the Tigers’ six new rowing boats. Rowing team captains Lauren Henne and Meridith Brand, along with Athletic Director Bobby Robinson, Senior Associate Athletic Director Dwight Rainey, Faculty Representative Dr. Cecil Huey, Rowing Academic Advisor Wayne Coffman and Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities Gary Wade unveiled the name of each Clemson boat. Henne then christened the stern of each boat with water from the finish line, and holy water was sprinkled on each boat.

In honor of the Clemson Tigers, one boat was named “Panthera tigris tigris.” Two other boats were named “Stealth” and “Ambush”, describing a Tiger’s characteristics and actions. The final three boats were named “Fortitude”, “Consistency & Intensity” and “The Will to Prepare,” all describing motivational slogans of the rowing team.

In the heats, the Juniors defeated the Seniors in the first race. The Juniors clocked a time of 7:29.65 on the course, while the Seniors finished the course in 7:59.79. In Heat Two, the Sophomores defeated the Freshmen, finishing the race in 7:20.68. The Freshmen recorded a time of 7:27.75 in the first race. The Freshmen won the consolation finals over the Seniors. The Freshmen finished the race in 7:53.81, while the Seniors recorded a time of 8:20.29.

“The Class Day Regatta was a wonderful opportunity for parents and supporters to get a first-hand look at Clemson’s newest sport,” said Lueck following the races. “Despite the cool, windy weather, spirits were high and the races were very competitive. I was pleased with the performances of all four boats.”