CBA Crew Team Gears Up for Glory at National Rowing Championships!
Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota, Florida, USA - The excitement is building as the Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) crew team gears up for a stellar summer at the USRowing Youth National Championships in Sarasota, Florida, scheduled for June 12-15, 2024. The team’s recent performance has set the stage for what they hope will be a triumphant return to the national spotlight, building on their past success when they earned a silver medal in 2021. This year, under the leadership of head coach Brenin Ford, they are aiming to snag the coveted national gold medal.
CBA qualified for this prestigious event thanks to a strong finish at the Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) Nationals, where they took home third place, albeit in a nail-biting photo finish just mere tenths of a second behind the leaders. The team also navigated a challenging season that included a hair-raising close call at the Stotesbury Cup Regatta, where they finished less than half a second from the top.
The Road to Nationals
The journey to Sarasota has been anything but smooth for the team, who have faced numerous hurdles this season. Notably, junior oarsman Christian Johnson stepped up in light of an injury to senior Robert Earle, providing the crew with crucial experience as they continue to push their limits. The current lineup of the Colts varsity 4+ boat features senior coxswain Connor Burke and fellow seniors Jack Keavey, Jack McMahon, Will Vieth, along with Johnson. Their camaraderie and teamwork have been key in training sessions that often begin with the sunrise.
As they prepare, the team is not resting on their laurels. Early morning practices have become a norm, reflecting both dedication and a hunger to succeed. “We’ve been working hard, pushing our limits, and it’s paying off,” Ford remarked, emphasizing the depth and efficiency his crew has demonstrated throughout the season. Their results speak volumes, culminating in an impressive 18th-place finish out of 90 boats at the Head of the Charles Regatta, alongside second-place finishes at both the City Championships and the Stotesbury Cup.
Details for Spectators
Parking logistics have been carefully arranged as well. Teams can register one vehicle and one trailer, with designated parking spots allocated on a first-come, first-served basis starting from June 6, when trailer parking hours are open from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For those arriving early, it’s essential to check in with the staff for proper arrangements.
A Celebration of Achievement
The regatta also coincides with a special celebration of achievement, including a Graduation Ceremony on June 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Nathan Benderson Park, where graduating seniors will be recognized and awarded diplomas. It’s a momentous occasion for many of the athletes and adds an extra layer of excitement to the week’s events.
As the Christian Brothers Academy crew team readies itself for the challenge ahead, they carry with them the hopes and expectations of their community. With the determination evident in their rigorous training and impressive season thus far, there’s certainly something to be said for their dedication. Here’s hoping that when they set out on the waters of Sarasota, they’ll come back with the gold!
For more details, check out APP for the CBA team’s story, Regatta Central for regatta logistics, and USRowing for all official championship details.
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