Madison Crew Begins Season with Strong Showing at Polar Bear Regatta

James Madison High School Crew made a huge statement at the first regatta of the year on March 26 with five first place finishes and one third place finish. The weather for the Polar Bear Regatta could hardly be more perfect with bright sunshine that made the cool morning temperatures rise quickly to a comfortable 60 degrees. A light tail wind down the race course made for perfect racing conditions. It was clear from start of the race day that Madison Crew’s week of double practices during spring break paid off.

The Women’s 1st Eight finished first after flying out of their heat with a 10 second win into their final with an 8 second win over Robinson with a time of 5:09.6.

The Men’s 1st Eight also won first place with an open water gap in both their heat and final over Oakton High School, final time being 4:22.2.

Both Men and Women’s 2nd Eights placed first as well! With a time of 5:09.4, the Women’s 2nd Eight won their final with a 7 second gap over Robinson High School.

In the most exciting race of the day, the Men’s 2nd Eight fought hard at the end to maintain their lead and ended in tie for first with Woodbridge with a time of 4:54.1.

The Women’s 3rd Eight had a huge win with an open water 13 second gap between them and West Potomac. At the end of the day, all of the girls’ boats finished in first place.

The Men’s 3rd Eight finished strong placing third, 10 seconds in front of Woodson High School.

Madison’s strong showing at the Polar Bear Regatta bodes well for the rest of the season. Every rower, coxswain, coach, and parent should be proud to be part of James Madison crew! Keeping working hard and stay tuned for next week’s regatta, Regional Park, and the first freshmen and novice races!

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