By Peter Neville, Contributor
The cold, rainy and cloudy weather did not affect the Griffs' rowing team this past Saturday, when Canisius rowing posted solid finishes across the board in their first tournament of the season at the Head of the Niagara Rowing Club in Buffalo, New York.
The first race of the day started well for the Griffs, despite the weather, with varsity boats finishing in second and third place behind Division II national champion Mercyhurst in the 3k race. The first varsity eight shell finished with a time of 10:54.22, just 17 seconds behind the winner, while the second varsity boat finished with a time of 11:29.48.
The Griffs’ next group of rowers also performed well at the tournament, with all three of the Canisius novice 4+ boats finishing in the top three with final times of 12:50.18 for the A boat, 13:22.59 for the B boat and the C boat rounding out the day with a final time of 13:58.09.
The final race of the day was much like the second race of the day for the collegiate 4+ team, with all three boats finishing in the top three once again. The 4a boat, led by last year's first team all-MAAC member Hannah Kenefick, claimed first place with a final time of 12:16.26 and a medal to boot.
Head coach Kerri Brace talked about her thoughts on the first race of the season: "Each of our six crews was able to take what we’ve been working on in practice and make adjustments as we raced. I think in all crews, we were able to rise above slightly rough conditions to have really great moments and a foundation to build upon in the next couple of weeks."
Row-Griffs’ next race will take place on Saturday, Oct. 21, as they take part in the Yinzer Cup at the Midge McPhail Boathouse in Moon Township, PA.