OBy Andrew Donnelly ’20

On the weekend of May 14 and 15, the Chaminade Crew team traveled to Saratoga Springs to compete in the annual New York State Rowing Championship.  Chaminade brought ten boats, and each competed in an intense field.  The Flyers rowed against opponents from every corner of New York State.  They performed well, posting leaderboard times in various races.  All ten boats advanced to the finals.

“The fact that everyone was able to make the finals is fantastic,” said Mr. John Callinan ’84, head coach of the Chaminade crew team.

The JV 8 boat finished first, earning the title of state champions.  This was the first of many amazing races to follow for the Flyers.  The Novice 8 boat also placed first in the state.  The other freshman boats proved themselves over the weekend, advancing to the grand finals.  The two boats finished fourth and eighth in the state, respectively.

The varsity team had a fantastic showing as well.  In an awe-inspiring race, the boat was constantly shifting in and out of first place.  After giving it their best effort, the team finished second.  Only a quarter of a second separated the Flyers from the first place Fordham Prep boat.  

Mr. Callinan added, “I was proud of the entire team.  That everyone made the finals, and everyone was able to row twice, shows an outstanding team effort.”

The varsity rowers’ performance qualified them for the U.S. Rowing Youth National Championships held in Sarasota, FL on the weekend of June 9, 10, and 11 .  This marks the 14th consecutive year the Flyers have qualified for nationals, an event reserved for the fastest and most talented rowing teams in the nation.  The varsity Flyers have accomplished an incredible feat this year and will continue to train hard in pursuit of a top finish in Sarasota.