Columbia Victorious In Opening Henley Race
7/4/2018 3:25:00 PM | Lightweight Rowing
The Lions topped Edinburgh by open water to advance to the quarterfinals of the Prince Albert Challenge
HENLEY-ON-THAMES – The Columbia lightweight rowing team started its quest for the Prince Albert Challenge Cup with a two and a half length triumph over Edinburgh University. The Lions will take on the National University of Ireland, Galeway Friday. Columbia will also begin another varsity four competition Thursday when it opens the Visitors' Challenge Cup against mixed boat from Cambridge University and Leander Club at 1:15 p.m. eastern time.
The Lions and Edinburgh were neck-and-neck through the first portion of the course, but Columbia pushed further ahead towards the halfway point of the race. As the Lions' lead continued to build, they were able to pull back on some speed to and coast to the finish.
"It has been a while since we've been in a racing environment, and we've been through a lot with losing Ben and Jenson, so getting this first win under our belts is huge," said head coach Nich Lee Parker. "The guys put in a really smart piece against a talented Edinburgh crew. Obviously, we're very happy with the result and are excited to keep racing in this event and begin the Visitors' Cup tomorrow."
The time for the next Prince Albert Challenge Cup will be announced after Thursday's competition. Fans can watch all of the racing here and for up-to-the-minute results, be sure to follow @columbiarowing on Twitter.
