April 6, 2012

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Navy heavyweight rowing team defeated the host Colonials on day one of the George Washington Invitational on Friday in Washington, D.C. Competing on the Potomac River, the varsity eight held off an aggressive start by George Washington and was able to pull away and win, 5:39.8-5:48.3.

"GW got out to a nice start and it was pretty tight for the first 500 meters," said Navy head coach Rick Clothier. "We led by about a boat length at the halfway point and were able to settle down in the second half of the race.

"We're looking forward to tomorrow - we've got some things to work on."

Navy's second varsity and freshman crews also had good showings on Friday by defeating GW in their respective races. Navy's second and third varsity boats both defeated the Colonials in the second varsity race, crossing the finish line in 5:45 and 5:53.7, respectively. GW turned in a 6:02.8.

In the freshman eight race, Navy's top boat clocked a 5:46.1 to take the top spot. The Mids' second freshman boat took second with a 5:56.5 and GW took third with a 6:03.8.

Navy will meet Holy Cross and Georgetown on Saturday at the GW Invitational.

Freshman 8
1- Navy 5:46.1
2- Navy 2F 5:56.5
3- GW 6:03.8

Second Varsity 8
1- Navy 5:45.0
2- Navy 3V 5:53.7
3- GW 6:02.8

Varsity 8
1- Navy 5:39.8
2- GW 5:48.3