The Penn women's crew team had a clean sweep this weekend, disposing of Navy and Georgetown in a decisive win over both for the 12th straight year.
Winning all four of their events, the Quakers commenced their spring season in promising fashion, showing their skill both mentally and physically.
The varsity eight team pulled out the first win of the 2000 meter race in 5:48.8 -- six seconds ahead of Navy (5:54.3) with the Hoyas close behind (5:55.7).
"We've been training intensely for for months now and between the erging and the weight training we're coming out very strong," senior co-captain Sarah-Jane Irwin said.
"It's nice to have this win -- though expected -- so early in the season. It gives us a nice boost and preps us for the tougher races to come."
With an even greater margin of victory, the first novice eight boat stroked past the Hoyas and Midshipmen. The Quakers went on to win in 6:10.8 -- 12 seconds ahead of both teams, which finished in 6:22.3 and 6:23.1, respectively.
"We started out very strong in our race and once we got into the rhythm we stayed out ahead," sophomore Stephanie Foelster said. "We have a very deep team this year, so we're looking forward to a good season."
In a closer race, the second varsity eight team finished just three seconds ahead of Georgetown in 6:03.9.
The second varsity four pulled ahead early in the race, gaining a boat-length lead only 500m into the race. They went on to finish in 6:47, seven seconds ahead of the Hoyas.
"With such a great start to our season under our belt, we are ready to face the tougher competition," Irwin said.
The Quakers will have that chance next weekend when they take on Columbia and Yale in Pelham, N.Y.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.