The Drexel women’s rowing team has always held the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta in high regard. Unable to compete the past couple of years due to scheduling conflicts, the Dragons wanted to make the most of their return. In front of a raucous crowd on a sun splashed day at the Cooper River, the Dragons did just that by winning the 2024 Women’s Varsity Eight. The victory was Drexel’s first since 2021 and third in program history. “It meant a lot to us,” said senior captain Taylor Powell. “The Jefferson Dad Vail is a huge deal here for us and all the past dragons that were in the seats before us so coming back for the first time in a couple years validated all the hard work we put in. It wasn’t just a win; it was a statement about our team culture and resilience.” Prior to lining up for the Grand Finale, the Dragons focused on staying composed and rowing their race. There were a lot of nerves,” said Powell, who was rowing in her first race after a rough back injury. “We reminded each other to trust the training, trust the rhythm, and stay locked in on our own boat. Our coxswain, Chloe Speciale, gave us the perfect mix of calm and fire and it really helped set the tone.” Drexel left the stakeboat clean and assumed control early. At the 500-meter mark, they felt the rhythm click and you could tell they were in sync composing a quiet intensity that helped them build a sustainable lead. This lead carried them through the race and earned Drexel Women its third Evelyn Bergman Cup in school history and their second in four years. As the 2025 Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta approaches, the Dragons are hoping to continue the success they have been building.“It’s been intense, but focused,” Powell said. “Every race has been a chance to test ourselves and grow. We’re hungry for another win. The goal hasn’t changed, we’re here to defend and leave it all on the water.” JEFFERSON DAD VAIL HOLDS SPECIAL PLACE DREXEL WOMEN’S ROWING
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