Submitted by Olympia Area Rowing
Congratulations to the junior members of Olympia Area Rowing who traveled to Vancouver Lake, Washington to row in the NW Junior Regional Regatta on May 17-19. OAR sent 39 rowers, 5 coxswains, and 6 coaches to the three day event. Countless family and friends were also in attendance to show their continued support.
More than half the of the team came home with medals — a tribute to the depth of the team and the continued improvement as our teams grow stronger each year. OAR crews rowed in the finals in 17 events (see attached sheet) and they medaled in 9 of those events! The Boys Novice Quad (Lian Eytinge (cox), Stuart Doty, Matthew Moen, Carsten Beckwith-Strike, and Paul Smith) came home with a first place trophy, racing in the new OAR boat, the “Gretchen Thunderstruck Van Dusen.” Thanks to all the contributors who helped make this possible.
Two of the rowers, seniors Corban Nemeth and Walker Capra-Smith, advanced to Nationals for the second year in a row by placing second in the Men’s Pair. Two other varsity team members, Stuart Doty and Matthew Moen, rowed the Men’s Lightweight Double to a very close fourth place finish; we are waiting to hear if they, too, will be heading to Nationals.
This season’s finale at regionals was an exciting time for all involved. The many great performances are an inspiration and will provide motivation to us all moving forward into the summer and fall seasons.
Thank you ALL for your support of Olympia Area Rowing and the OAR junior program.
