Clemson Rowing Successful at Head of the Welland

Sept. 28, 2008

Welland, Ontario – The Clemson rowing team traveled to Welland, Ontario this weekend to compete in the Head of the Welland regatta. The Tigers entered three boats in the competition, and each one fared well in their races.

The Varsity 8+ finished first in their race with a time of 16:26.43. SUNY Buffalo finished behind the Tigers with a time of 17:03.10. Clemson’s Varsity 8+ consisted of Megan Bendik, Liz Robb, Hilary Cumbest, Stefanie Kozuszek, Kelly Murphy, Brittany Cummings, and coxswain Meredith Razzolini.

The Tigers entered two boats in the in Open 4+ race and both finished in the top two. The boat finishing in first place consisted of Leidecker, Bendik, Cumbest, Kozuszek, and Razzolini. Their finishing time was 18:19.87. The Clemson boat that finished in second with a time of 18:41.64 consisted of Nance, Robb, Murphy, Cummings and coxswain Andrea Belbusti.

‘We are very thankful for having the opportunity to race in Welland. The rowing and passion for the sport is truly special in Welland. I would strongly recommend universities take advantage of a beautiful venue and fantastic hospitality,” said Head Coach Richard Ruggieri. “It’s important to travel and race in preparation for the Head of the Charles. We identified a few areas that must be improved and understand the importance of achieving that.”