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| Freshman Libby Lichter sat in the 3 seat for the 1st place varsity eight |
WORCESTER - The Tufts University varsity women's eight ran over William Smith, WPI, Clark, and Skidmore Sunday on a breathtaking day on Lake Quinsigamond to successfully defend the Bernard Brown Cup.
For the second straight year the Lady Jumbos rowed away from the field to craft a convincing win over the visitors from New York and the hometown Worcester crews, and now hold a 9-5 margin in the cup series. Tufts made one boating change after Saturday's win over Middlebury, with freshman Maddie Orzeske moving into the four seat for senior Claire Sleigh, who was rested today as she continues to recover from a lower back injury.
The Jumbos worked steadily out from WPI and William Smith in the first 500 meters establishing a half-length margin that stretched to a full length over William SMith and two lengths over WPI at the race's midpoint. From there it was on cruise control with Tufts finishing the 2,000 meter course in 6:48.1, William Smith at 6:54.23, WP 7:01.9 and Clark and Skidmore trailing.
WPI's second varsity eight proved to be a tough draw for the Jumbos, and returned the favor with a comfortable win over Tufts, finishing in 7:01.43 to Tufts' 7:15.31. Tufts' margin over William Smith was equally comfortable, with the Herons another 11.83 seconds back in 7:27.43.
Tufts' 3V8 was bracketed by two WPI boats in their race, and comfortable ahead of an entry from Clark. Final times were WPI 7:18.20, Tufts 7:34.04, WPI 7:40.39, and Clark 7:57.1.
All the crews now have a two-week preparation period before they return to Lake Quinsigamond for the New England Rowing Championships on April 30.
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