WVU Rowing Opens 2024 Spring Season with Strong Performances in Florida and Pittsburgh

The West Virginia University rowing team kicked off their 2024 spring season in impressive fashion this past weekend, with a split squad competing in two different locations. Four boats traveled to Sarasota, Florida, for the Sunshine State Invitational, while one boat took on Robert Morris and Duquesne in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Head coach Jimmy King reflected on the challenging conditions the team faced at the Sunshine State Invitational, noting that the eights struggled on Friday but showed significant improvement on Saturday. Despite the tough competition from schools like Boston College, Michigan State, and Louisville, the Mountaineers managed to advance all four boats to the petite finals on Saturday.

The 2V4+ boat emerged as the standout performer of the weekend, securing a first-place finish with a time of 7:40.73. Junior coxswain Grace Fay praised her team’s flawless execution and expressed excitement for the rest of the season.

In Pittsburgh, the 3V8+ boat faced off against Duquesne’s 2V8+, claiming victory by 11 seconds in challenging conditions. Assistant coach Mikie Sevick highlighted the race as a valuable opportunity for the team to put their training into practice.

Looking ahead, WVU rowing will host the Gold and Blue Regatta on April 6 in Morgantown, West Virginia. With a strong start to the season, the Mountaineers are eager to continue building momentum and achieving success in the weeks to come.