READING, England – The Colgate women's rowing team opened its week of competition at the Reading Amateur Regatta. The Raiders entered two boats, with the first varsity eight and second varsity eight competing on the River Thames.

The race course measured 1,500 meters, rather than the traditional 2,000-meter distance.

COACH LISTER'S COMMENTS
Today was an opportunity to get back into our racing mindset since our last race at Patriot League Championship on May. We were able test the waters at the Reading Amateur Regatta which was a great warm-up for next week at Henley. The adjustment from a 2k to a 1500m requires a different approach that we still need to fine-tune. The rowers came off the water excited about their rows and recognized that there is some work to be done this week. While we are here training for the race, we are grateful for all the hospitality that has been sent our way by the rowing community.

HOW IT HAPPENED
The first varsity eight (1V8+) was the first Raider boat to compete in Band 1, taking on the University of Bath in a head-to-head race. Bath crossed the finish line in 4:51, while Colgate finished approximately two-and-a-half lengths behind.

Bath went on to win the Band 1 title at the Reading Amateur Regatta.

The second varsity eight (2V8+) competed in Colgate's second and final race of the day against the University of Southampton. The Raiders stayed close throughout the race but trailed slightly down the stretch. Southampton crossed the finish line in 5:10, with Colgate finishing approximately one length behind.

UP NEXT
The Reading Amateur Regatta was one of two races the Raiders will compete in during their trip to England. Colgate's next event is Henley Women's Regatta, scheduled for June 19-21 in Henley-on-Thames.

The event marks the first time in more than 25 years that a Colgate boat has competed in the regatta.