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Sophomore Charles Huckel, 2 seat in the Boys Varsity 8, shared his thoughts on racing at Head of the Charles (HOCR) and Head of the Schuylkill (HOSR)
HOCR
Being in Boston was a great experience for everyone; it made us more familiar with what it is like to race at a high level with a large audience. Being together the whole weekend, the crews became closer off the water, which translates to how we do on the water. The race was very interesting, with all its turns and bridges to go under. The crowds all around the course kept us locked in and driven to finish it with all we have, especially around Eliot Bridge, where the bulk of the spectators was. Overall it was a great weekend for all the rowers and coxswains, making us more comfortable in these racing conditions.
HOSR
Racing at the Schuylkill after being in Buffalo and Boston the past two weeks was nice because most of the boys were pretty familiar with the environment. Something that I think most of us liked was being able to sleep in a little more than usual due to our races being in the afternoon. Hearing cheers and motivation going up to the start and during the race is always great because it gives you an extra drive to keep going. It was also nice to be the one to motivate the other Mercer boats during their race.
Sophomore Rhea Kaycee, Coxswain for the Novice Boys 8 on Head of the Schuylkill
The Head of Schuylkill was filled with emotions, but it was a great way for our team to come together. In my boat, starting from the time we all got to the trailer, we made a race plan while rigging and prepared to get on the water. As it came time for hands-on, the crew was nervous as it was only their second race of the season. Getting up to the start was a challenge for everyone, but once we reached the start, everyone was ready to make this their best regatta yet!
We started off strong and powerful, approaching the crews in front of us. The team did an amazing job persevering through the entire thing and pushing themselves past their limits. We passed two boats towards the middle, and the crew stayed motivated throughout the race. The coaches did an awesome job supporting and helping us through all the hardships throughout the day. Even though we didn’t place as high as we wanted to, we were proud of ourselves in the end because we remained consistent and stayed below our goal split. This regatta was an excellent learning experience for all of us, and we are excited for the next ones to come!
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