Sports
April 6, 2009
Maggie Goldstein / The Dartmouth Staff
Both the Big Green men's heavyweight and women's crews swept their races this weekend during their first regattas of the year.
The men's lightweight crew began the season by capturing victories in three out of their four races against the University of Delaware this weekend.
The Big Green women's squad overcame difficult racing conditions during Saturday's regatta, topping Northeastern University, the University of Rhode Island and Boston College.
The Dartmouth women's varsity eight clocked in at 7:38.7, just ahead of Northeastern, who finished in 7:43.7.
Battling strong headwinds and plowing through white caps, the Big Green women established a half-length lead at the settle, and a full-length lead by the 500-meter mark.
The morning's choppy waters and 20 miles per hour gusts made for a rough first 500 meters, according to captain Kate Harney '09, although the squads adapted to the conditions.
"For rowing, wind is an important factor," she said.