Stanford University’s lightweight rowing team competed in its first event of the spring season on March 28, racing at Melton Hill Lake in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The team participated against openweight boats from the University of Tennessee, fielding a varsity eight and two varsity four crews.
The competition marks the start of Stanford’s spring campaign, providing an early measure for the team as it prepares for upcoming races. Facing only openweight opponents, Stanford’s athletes tested their speed and teamwork under challenging conditions.
In the varsity eight race, Stanford led through the opening 500 meters and remained nearly level with Tennessee’s third openweight eight through 1500 meters. Ultimately, they finished just five seconds behind the third-place boat. The Cardinal also entered two varsity four boats: their first varsity four raced against Tennessee’s second varsity and two other Volunteer crews, while their second varsity four faced three more Volunteer quartets. Both Stanford fours placed fourth in their respective heats.
The team’s next scheduled event is its home opener against Princeton on Saturday, April 11.
This early test sets a foundation for further improvement as Stanford continues its spring schedule.
