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Article
by Jon R., photos by John W.
The Merrimac River Rowing Association fielded a strong team
in the first annual Lawrence Celebration Regatta. A 1000 meter
sprint across a calm protected portion of the river. The day
was warm and started out dry, turning to drizzle as the race
progressed, ending in heavy rain after the last competitors
were off the water.
The MRRA began its day with a heat, Bob S. in the mens masters
single. Bob took the early lead in what was a very close race.
Bob E. challenged Bob S. over the entire course. Bob E. tried
to close the gap, but Bob S. held on to the lead to advance
into the finals. But wait, it turns out that was the final
and Bob S. walks away with the gold. But wait, the results
get posted, showing Bob E. catching Bob S. in the final seconds
snatching the victory. But wait, both Bobs agreed that Bob
S. crossed the line first and Bob S. did go home with the
gold.
Next up, the mens masters four plus. Coxed by Molly B. and
powered by Rick M at stroke, Steve S., Paul M., and Marc C.
A close race, the four was putting up a fight for second place.
Hammering down the course. Unable to hold on, they were not
able to advance into the finals.
Wilma B. one of our newest members went out in a single for
her very first race. Entering the womans masters event, she
had one of her best performances to date.
The club double saw a lot of use today, starting with Jon
R. and John W. in the mens masters event. Off to a slow start
they worked hard over the next 1000 meters. Steadily closing
the gap, recapturing what they gave up at the start. Running
out of river (And I mean that literally. 50 meters after the
finish is a 15 foot dam.) they crossed the finish with a strong
second place showing.
With a last minute entry, Bob S. teamed up with his nemesis
Bob E. for a crack at gold in the mens open. This race was
over at the start. Flying off the starting line they never
looked back (well they did, but only because they were facing
that way). Even turning hard to port at the 700 meter buoys
and rowing 50 meters more than their challengers, this race
was all theirs.
Hot
seating into the boat was Molly B. and Charmie C. for the
womans open. Screaming down the river, the first 500 meters
was anybodies race. Challenging the competition, forcing them
to dig deeper. Facing stiff competition they were unable to
hold that pace over the final meters, finishing in a very
strong second.
Our club put on a very strong showing today, on what turned
out to be a beautiful day (if you ignore the rain) along a
beautiful stretch of the river. The club spirit and colors
were soaring. Go MRRA!
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