OS.Members -Cincinnati report

[Evan Young]

The Strokes and the 17 year cicadas arrived in Cincinnati for Nationals at about the same time, with impressive results by both groups.  The men's lightweight four put on a herculean sprint for a finish that had officials poring over photos and finally deciding it was too close to call, awarding two boats bronze medals.  The women's lightweight eight finished their impressive racing season in the petite final against a formidable array of boats from all over the country (hence the "Nationals"), taking sixth, but fighting mightily.  The women's varsity eight rowed a great race in their petite final (after an afternoon spent in Wal Mart waiting out a summer thunder storm that postponed the rep races on Saturday until Sunday morning) and took third.  The men's varsity four rounded out the day with a fast and hard-fought third place finish in their petite final.  Well done all boats - you made us very proud.
None of this would have been possible without the hard work of Beth, Ian and Ivan who ably coached the rowers, the incomparable travel team of Susan Ito and the Weilands and the chaperones who got them where they were supposed to be, and the parents and family members (who came from near and far) who cheered them on from launch to finish.  Many, many thanks to all.

Annie Mudge and Evan Young