85TH ANNUAL Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Friday, May 10–Saturday, May 11, 2024 Pennsauken, NJ | Cooper River
Can an industrial designer get a surfer back on his board and can the future of architecture empower global sustainability? But asking tough questions isn’t enough — we need to answer them. So, we are converging people, ideas and perspectives to find leading-edge solutions for real-world problems. We focus on our craft to drive progress and growth in architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion & textiles, health, medicine, nursing, science and social science. Built for a future that has yet to be defined, Jefferson is crossing disciplines to bring unrivaled innovation and discovery to higher education and to answer the questions that will redefine possible. At Thomas Jefferson University, we dare to ask bold questions, like: Jefferson.edu/RedefinePossible
This year’s Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta resonates with historical significance, as Thomas Jefferson University commemorates its 200-year legacy of innovation and leadership in higher education, health care and community service. That legacy began in 1824, with the founding of the Jefferson Medical College — one of the nation’s first medical schools, the first to open a clinic for the poor, and the second with an associated teaching hospital. In the two centuries since, Jefferson has become a national doctoral research university with more than 200 diverse academic programs — and a research powerhouse in discovery, translational, clinical, and applied research and scholarship. Today, we are defining how we will extend that legacy in our third century. We are asking ourselves big questions, developing exciting answers, and working to redefine possible for the 21st century. We are striving to ensure that a Jefferson education — which is built on a future-focused model for educating professionals that has enabled our graduates to have a 97 percent success rate — delivers enduring value. We are committed to preparing our graduates to succeed throughout their professional careers. And we’re determined to give them the knowledge and skills they’ll need to capitalize on the opportunities that the dynamic decades ahead offer. In important ways, the Dad Vail Regatta’s own deep and rich legacy and culture mirrors Jefferson’s. Rowers prize teamwork, resilience and finely honed skills. They are dedicated to the hard work necessary to succeed in a very competitive environment. And, history shows, our Regatta participants go on to achieve great things —professionally and personally, for their families and their communities. As the largest college regatta in North America, this event symbolizes more than athletic prowess. It symbolizes the spirit of collaboration, commitment, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence. And we at Jefferson are proud to be closely associated with the athletes who carry that spirit. We extend our congratulations to all the crews participating in this year’s regatta. Susan C. Aldridge, PhD Interim President, Thomas Jefferson University to the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta! ARCHITECTURE | BUSINESS | DESIGN | ENGINEERING | FASHION & TEXTILES | HEALTH | MEDICINE | NURSING | SCIENCE | SOCIAL SCIENCE
2024 CAMDEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS The Board of Commissioners is proud to host the 85th annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta on the Cooper River in the award-winning Camden County Parks System. In 2023, the event moved from its typical venue at the Schuylkill River National Racecourse, to the waters of Cooper River Park and brought with it thousands of world class athletes and fans. Hosting the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta was a great honor for us and to have it return for the second time is incredible and we are grateful that the Board of Directors of the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee chose our world-renowned venue as the location for this prestigious event. Cooper River Park in Pennsauken is home to many prestigious rowing events and boasts a world-class, Olympic-distance, 2000-meter narrow and sheltered straightaway. Cooper River Park encompasses 346 acres through Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Collingswood, and Haddon Township. In addition to the boathouse, the park has several top-quality amenities for visitors to enjoy which includes: a children’s playground with pavilions, a softball field, a cross country course, the Camden County Driving Range, the Cooper River Yacht Club, bike trails, Jack Curtis Stadium, a track, picnic areas, Veterans Island, a brand-new dog park, a bocce court and more. We are eager to welcome back all the rowers, staff and fans to Cooper River Park and cannot wait for another successful Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. Camden County Board of Commissioners JEFFREY L. NASH LOUIS CAPPELLI, JR. DIRECTOR EDWARD T. MCDONNELL DEPUTY DIRECTOR VIRGINIA BETTERIDGE JONATHAN L. YOUNG, SR. MELINDA KANE AL DYER Welcome LETTER OF
In Recognition Teamwork, discipline, determination, and camaraderie are the words that define James R. Hanna’s (“Jim”) approach to life and especially to the sport of rowing. From the first time Jim picked up an oar in 1963 he exemplified the true oarsman, and for the past 48 years he has continued the tradition with his dedication to the Dad Vail Regatta. Jim began his service in the finish line tower in 1975 but his most significant contributions came during his tenor as President from 2003 to 2024. Through his diligence and leadership, the Dad Vail Regatta became a premier collegiate event and time-honored tradition. Jim’s approach and dedication to rowing has inspired countless rowers and volunteers to follow his example of teamwork both on and off the water. For this reason, the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee would like to thank and recognize Jim by renaming the Men’s Varsity 8 trophy the O’Brien-Hanna Trophy. James R. Hanna John R. Galloway, (“Jack”) opened rowing competition for women by providing a warm welcome to the Dad Vail, has fostered independent sponsorships to augment entry fees for the purpose of staging the most professional rowing event collegians might experience in North America and has exemplified the highest standards of voluntary leadership culminating in producing the opportunity for literally tens of thousands of student athletes to test their mettle in the course and achieving their personal best. The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee is grateful to have had Jack serve as President from 1977 to 2001 before being elected to serve as Chairman of the Board, a position he continues to hold even to the present day establishing a record of service now approaching fifty years. For these many reasons, the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee would like to thank and recognize Jack by renaming the Overall Point Trophy the Bratton-Galloway Trophy. John R. Galloway
DAD VAIL REGATTA ORGANIZING COMMITTEE OFFICERS JOHN R. GALLOWAY Chairman KIRSTEN L. MORASCO President JAMES R. HANNA Past President KEVIN F. BACKE Vice President PATRICK MCCANN Vice President JOHN F. LEONARD Regatta Secretary PATRICIA A. WINTON Recording Secretary JOHN MUSIAL Treasurer DIRECTORS BRIAN A. BAPTISTE WILLIAM BRADSHAW AMY CAMPBELL THOMAS G. DELUTIS DON DIJULIA LARRY DOUGHERTY JAMES R. HANNA WILLIAM K. JURGENS, JR. MORRIE LEDWITH ASIYA MAHMUD LOU MCCORMICK GREGORY MONTANARO JOSEPH MURPHY M.D. BRADEN J. NEGAARD CHRISTOPHER L. O’BRIEN, JR. LAUREN M. VIDAS PAUL SAVELL ADVISORY BOARD JILL BODENSTEINER WILLIAM E. MIFFLIN DENIS O’BRIEN STEPHAN M. ROSENFELD VINCENT SZYMKOWSKI REGATTA MANAGERS JOHN MUSIAL Chief Referee KATE GODWIN Co-Chief Referee CHRISTA MUSIAL Director of Registration MARY LEDWITH Chief Medical Official MORRIE LEDWITH Dock Master Director TRICIA WINTON Director of Volunteers AWARDS AND RECOGNITION COLLEEN LAWSON PAYTON MORASCO KAREN O’BRIEN PATRICK O’BRIEN KEN SHAW RIVER MARSHALS JOHN LEONARD DAVE KACALA MICHAEL CIPOLLONE PETER MCNAMARA US ROWING REFEREES JOHN MUSIAL Chief Referee KATE GODWIN Co-Chief Referee KEN SCOTT JOHN ROSS TOM TACNER HAL JOHNSON MIKE KELLEY JOE KIEFFER DAN HARMON BERNADETTE MURPHY BILLY CUNNINGHAM ED FAGAN DENNIS STREEBEL JOAN SHOLL DAN JONES JIM KALKBRENER RUTH MACNAMARA CHRIS LAWSON SCOTT WOODWORTH ZORY SALAS JORGE SALAS LEE ANNE DILUCCA JOHN QUINN GUDI BIGGA SANDY KILLEN DUNCAN HUDSON MIKE MURPHY LIND BAITTY KATHLEEN DAMEO DAN MCARDLE ANDRS CARAZO NIKOLA VAJDA DENNIS SMITH TONY DENOFA DAN DUBBS LIVE STREAMING SUZE DIPIETRO BILL JURGENS JOE LEONARD NOLEN MORASCO BRAD NEGAARD ANNETTE NEGAARD GERRY PATERSON WHITNEY POWELL TOM O’KEEFE ATHLETE HOSPITALITY MARY LEDWITH AINSLEY MORASCO VIRGINIA CONWAY MARY MCDONNELL DANA MCGOVERN DOLORES LEDWITH ABIGAIL LEDWITH ANNE LEONARD MERCEDES WILLIAMS REGATTA OPERATIONS KEVIN BACKE PAT MCCANN MORRIE LEDWITH JOHN MUSIAL JOHN LEONARD PROGRAM PRODUCER STUART FRANKS WEB SITE MANAGER JON BERNSTEIN JUDGES AT FINISH BOB CLARKE LOU MCCORMICK, III LAUNCH AREA MORRIE LEDWITH JACK CONLIN JOHN JUGLER DIANE GODOROV REGATTA HOSPITALITY KATIE BACKE GIGI BACKE ALUMNI RELATIONS RICK YELLIS PRESS RELATIONS ED LEVIN SOCIAL MEDIA SUZE DIPIETRO PHOTOGRAPHY GLEN STEWART RESULTS KEVIN BACKE DEBBIE CORNATZER LOU MCCORMICK III REGISTRATION CHRISTA MUSIAL KAT MUSIAL JUDY KAPLOW TIMING SYSTEM JASON MOODY STREAMING VIDEO FIVE TRIBES CINEMA PRODUCTIONS COLIN STEWART LED WALL AND STREAMING AUDIO APA MUSIC-PICTURES WEATHER MONITOR ANDREW SHIPOTOFSKY IT CONSULTANT DAVE KEPHART THE COACHES COMMITTEE CHRIS O’BRIEN (CHAIR) KATIE LANE MICHIEL BARTMAN MIKE LANE STEVE WAGNER PRESTON WEINARD LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE MOORESTOWN ROWING CLUB SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR TIME REGATTAOfficials
N. Park Drive Cuthbert Blvd Rt. 130 START FINISH 500m 1000m 1500m Cuthbert Blvd. S. Park Drive Rt. 70 Cuthbert Parking Main Concourse Race Course & FOOD COURT LEGEND S. Park Drive N. Park Drive Cuthbert Blvd Rt. 130 Browning Rd Crew / Trailer Dock 2 Dock 1 S. Park Drive N. Park Drive Rt. 130 Browning Rd Officials Parking Camden County Boathouse Boathouse McClellan Ave. Browning Rd. Dock 4 S. Park Drive N. Park Drive Cuthbert Blvd Rt. 130 Browning Rd Boat / Team Storage Dock 3 Alumni Village Crew / Trailer VIP Parking Finish Line Tower Grand Stands LaScala’s Birra N. Park Drive Donahue Ave. LEGEND Music Platform Awards Dock Athlete’s Fueling Station
American University Crew Team Jorge Galindo Brock University Mary Rao Bryant University Stephanie Ricker Bryn Mawr College Catherine Ely Cabrini University Tim Hagan Carnegie Mellon University Rowing Club Estee Goel Clarkson University Crew Club Boris Jukic Colgate University Rowing Khaled Sanad Crew Club at VCU Yuriy Levitsky Dominican College Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky Drexel University Paul Savell Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Samara Bay Fairfield University Rowing David Patterson Florida Institute Technology Adam Thorstad Fordham University Rebecca Gronsdahl Franklin & Marshall Robert Brady GCRA Para rowing Joshua Sommers George Mason University Joe Richards Georgetown University Abbey Wilkowski Kendall Mulligan Georgia Tech Rowing Club Anna Denissiouk Gordon College Madeline Hopkins Haverford College Crew Sara Fakhry Iona College Crew Benjamin MacDougald Jacksonville University Rowing Mike Lane LaSalle University Women Brian Perkins LaSalle University Men Ivo Krakic Lafayette College Crew Club Rick Kelliher Lehigh University Maria Dupnock Long Island University Jaclyn Smith Loyola University Rowing Megan Patrick Marietta College Abby Klicker Greg Myhr Massachusetts Institute of Technology Amelia Patton Will Oliver Mercyhurst University Adrian Spracklen 2024COACHES You are cordially invited to attend The President’s Press Conference in recognition of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. to be convened in the Camden County Boathouse Located at 7050 N. Park Drive, Pennsauken Township, NJ 08109 The winners of the 22nd Annual Art Poster Contest will also be honored! #001 presented by
Merrimack College Andrew Finch Milwaukee School of Engineering Charles Stollenwerk Monmouth University Scott Belford New York University Crew Oklahoma City University Rowing Cory Conzemius Penn State Crew Lila Caton Philadelphia Adaptive Rowing Jeff McGinnis Robert Morris University Robert Weber Rochester Institute of Technology Carol Schoenecker Rollins College Crew Shawn Pistor Rutgers University Men’s Crew Stephen Wagner Saint Joseph’s University Mike Irwin Simmons College Andrii Ivanchuck St. Mary’s College of Maryland Nikolaus Meyer Stetson University Crew Jamie Francis Stockton University Chris O’Brien Temple University Brandon Cunningham Texas Crew Austin Kayanan Thomas Jefferson University Michiel Bartman Trent University Rowing Alex Bridal U. S. Merchant Marine Academy Derek Hartwick U. S. Military Academy Crew Tom Babbitt Union College Tomas White University of Delaware Crew Chuck Crawford Asiya Mahmud University of Florida Crew Anthony Brock Chris Tippin University of Pittsburgh Jacquelyn Rice University of Rhode Island Tim Nesselrodt University of St. Thomas Jonathan Buchert University of Tampa Bill Dunlap University of Wisconsin Vicky Optiz Villanova Wildcat Rowing Association Carissa Adams Washington College Will McLean Western University Matthew Waddell William & Mary Rebecca Newman &SCHOOLS
marcumllp.com Ever wonder where the people with all the answers get all the answers? Ask MARCUM Proud to support the 85th Anniversary of the Dad Vail
1. LaSalle University 2. Drexel University 3. Temple University 4. Rollins College Crew 5. Fairfield University Rowing 6. Jacksonville University Rowing 7. Loyola University 8. Georgetown University 9. University of Delaware Men’s Crew 10. Penn State Crew Alumni 11. Lehigh University 12. Iona University 13. Marietta College 14. Rutgers University 15. Colgate University Alumni TENTS PROUDLY SPONSORING DAD VAIL
The Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee established “Friends of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta,” a membership supported endeavor, to rally both long-time and new fans of North America’s largest collegiate rowing regatta. Friends of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta accept financial gifts from individuals and groups to strengthen the financial underpinnings of an unparalleled rowing tradition that began in 1934 and has become an iconic Philadelphia regional event. To join the Friends of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta and make a financial gift, go to www.dadvail.org and click on the Donate Now button. Become a Friend of the JEFFERSON DAD VAIL REGATTA
Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee SAFESPORT POLICY Effective as of January 1, 2015 Condensed SafeSport Policy (For Entire Policy and Program See Website www.dadvail.org) DVROC’s SafeSport program is designed to insure athlete safety and promote an environment free from six forms of prohibited conduct to include actual or alleged bullying, hazing, harassment (including sexual harassment), emotional misconduct, physical misconduct and sexual misconduct (including child sexual abuse). REPORTING AN INCIDENT Any person who has been a party to, or witness to any one or more of the six prohibited acts of misconduct shall prepare a written report and deliver a copy to two DVROC Officials at two, separate meetings. DVROC Officials, who can be recognized by their Gold colored jackets, circulate throughout the Regatta on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the Regatta weekend. All reports shall always be treated as confidential, shall be clearly marked as confidential, shall contain the name of the person who prepared the report, and the date and time of the alleged incident, the name(s) of the victim(s), the specific prohibition which has been violated, and the date and time the report has been provided to each of the two DVROC Official, as well as the printed and signed name of the two DVROC Officials who received copies of the report. A record of all information shall be maintained by the victim or the victim’s advocate. Due to the sensitive nature of any reported alleged incident, circulation shall be strictly limited to those parties with a specific “need to know.” For final disposition of any alleged incident, DVROC Officials will refer the matter to, and furnish the subject report to the Chief Referee who is always a US Rowing Licensed Referee, who shall be responsible to follow appropriate incident reporting receipt of any report to the President of DVROC, who shall assume for responsibility for providing notification to the proper authorities. In the event of an emergency or there exists a need for anonymity, hot line phone numbers follow: 610.213.0939 – DVROC, President, Kirsten Ledwith Morasco 610.952.4293 – DVROC, Immediate Past President, J.R, Hanna DRONE RULE Permission to use any drone at the Dad Vail Regatta must be approved, in writing, in advance of the first day of the Regatta, by DVROC and by the Chief Referee. Anyone seeking to operate a drone at the Dad Vail Regatta must petition for permission prior to the event. This petition shall include times, area of operation, operator name and contact information as well as the specific location from where the drone shall be operated. Any drone operating at the Regatta without proper approval will be grounded. The crew associated with the outlaw drone may be penalized. CAPSIZE RULE Any crew that capsizes in the marshalling area, starting line or while racing will not be permitted to compete. If a crew capsizes while rowing to the start (outside the marshalling area) they will be permitted to compete provided all of the athletes and the related equipment are deemed to be in good condition. No races will be delayed due to a capsize event. Capsize and Drone Rules Capsize Rule Any crew that capsizes in the marshalling area, starting line or while racing will be Drone Rule Permission to use any drone at the Dad Vail Regatta must be approved, in writing, in advance of the rst day of the Regatta, by DVROC and by the Chief Referee. Anyone seeking to operate a drone at the Dad Vail Regatta must petition for permission prior to the event. is petition shall include times, area of operation, operator name and contact information as well as the speci c location from where the drone shall be operated. Any drone operating at the Regatta without proper approval will be grounded. e crew associated with the outlaw drone may be penalized.
“Not just another regatta” is the saying allegedly prompting thousands of spectators to flock to the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area in the second full weekend of May for the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta! Unique to the pageantry and traditions of this event is the breadth of celebration. There is something to attract every one of every age! Competition is fierce from single rowing boats to powerful eight oared shells moving rapidly down still waters amidst the deafening roar of their loyal school alumni! Recognition is ubiquitous beginning at the awards dock, when at the end of each race heavily breathing, perspiring and overly excited rowers claim their first, second, and third place gold, silver, and bronze medals respectively, so highly prized they are frequently found still hanging around their necks weeks after the end of the Regatta! To stage an event of this magnitude, which generally involves approximately 75 schools and over 2,000 athletes the allvolunteer organizers must take on any task at hand. When the sixty-foot trailers loaded with shining racing shells begin to arrive along with crews, coaches, and spectators everything must run smoothly. A finely orchestrated cadre of 200 well -seasoned volunteers, ranging in age 10 to 92, from around the country make this event a success and proudly consider this to be the highlight of their year, some wearing the treasured Dad Vail Gold Jacket, emblematic of and awarded only after ten continuous dedicated years of service to the Dad Vail. An enormous circus tent serves as cover for the traditional Friday night awards banquet staged after the first day of racing is over. The ambiance is akin to the Master’s Golf awards ceremony, the Kentucky Derby wreath bestowing, the Wimbledon winners’ stage, and the Royal Henley Regatta awards ceremony all combined! Silver engraved plates are awarded to commemorate 25- and 50-year returning anniversary crews who steadfastly arrive to celebrate their championships from years earlier. One grandfather even announced to the audience, “that winning a Dad Vail Gold Medal was the most memorable event of his lifetime!” With the only constant being change, Dad Vail regularly pivots and to create rowing events to promote inclusivity. the latest being introduction of para rowing. Just recently, Taylor Roberts became the very first para rower to cross the finish line in the very first para-rowing exhibition race! For the very first time this year, all para rowing will be in “OPEN" events. Winners of the Men's & Women's PR 1 Single Scull events automatically qualify to attend the USRowing Para Development Camp in July and will be awarded a $2000 scholarship to offset the cost of the camp and racing at the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta! This opportunity is by virtue of support from the Gold Challenge Cup Foundation and USRowing. In a bit of contrast, the 22nd Annual Dad Vail Art Poster contest challenges high school students who compete for scholarship checks presented to winners whose compositions best depict a Dad Vail Regatta scene. As for the Regatta, spectators report, no one else provides for an alumni village which reverberates with camaraderie, a beer garden for quenching ones thirst while watching athletes “heave ho” as they row down the racecourse and a Regatta festival area with rowing apparel vendors, food trucks and bands that play live music throughout the event. The 85th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by Coca-Cola will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 10, and Saturday, May 11 and it is free! JEFFERSON DAD VAIL REGATTA Provides Unique Experience You are cordially invited to attend The President’s Press Conference in recognition of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. to be convened in the Camden County Boathouse Located at 7050 N. Park Drive, Pennsauken Township, NJ 08109 The winners of the 22nd Annual Art Poster Contest will also be honored! #001 presented by
Harry Emerson Vail, a former rower, captain (1892-93) and assistant coach at Harvard for seven years, was hired at Wisconsin after E. R. Sweetland, former Cornell rower, resigned after only three winter months on the job. Vail immediately made an impact on the Badger rowers, as chronicled by the Wisconsin State Journal of March 11, 1911, “All of the crew men like the strapping giant, who peels o his citizen clothes and gets into the gym suit to show them how to operate an oar in a shell.” A year later, Vail's varsity placed second to Cornell by only three seconds over four miles at the Poughkeepsie Regatta. Over the summer of 1914, the UWmedical faculty and the Athletic Council decided to ban crew as causing an enlarged heart and therefore being a danger to the athletes. Vail a nationally known sculler and coach, was therefore forced to bide his time at Wisconsin and wait ten more years before returning to the Hudson to compete again in the Poughkeepsie Regatta. His perseverance kept a national crew perspective at Madison. Later studies proved the heart, a muscle, enlarges like any other exercised muscle, and that rowers showed a lower risk of premature death over their lifetimes than non-athletes. During this period, crew became a club sport for some of the years and, after the ban was removed for the 1920-21 season, returned to shortcourse races against other colleges for the balance of the years. Vail is credited by all for maintaining a campus spirit for the sport of crew and for helping to bring it back to varsity status in the early 1920's. e truth is, crew would probably have never died completely, given the inherent advantages to the sport on a Madison campus situated between two large lakes. In 1924, Vail returned to the Hudson River and his varsity eight again took 2nd place at the Poughkeepsie Regatta. During the 1920's, Vail would host opposing crews and coaches that would touch him or Wisconsin in later years. Future Wisconsin coaches-Washington rowers Mike Murphy and Norm Sonju, rowed in Madison in the 1920's against Vail-coached Wisconsin crews. Washington Coach “Rusty” Callow (later a Penn and, nally, the Navy head crew coach)visited Madison with his crews in 1927 and was so moved by Vail's warmth, humor and humility, that he would later initiate, in 1934, the rst “Dad” Vail trophy in a regatta that later o cially became the “Dad” Vail Regatta. It is today the largest collegiate regatta in the nation, attracting men's and women's Division II crews and new crew programs from Division I colleges. When “Dad” Vail died in his native Canada in 1928, Wisconsin State Journal Sports Editor, Henry J. McCormick, who rowed for Vail, wrote of his mentor's death, he “never had a more abiding a ection for anyone” than he felt for Vail. Meet “Dad” Vail
85th Anniversary A History The Dad Vail Regatta is rich in history and traditions which make it unlike any other regatta in the country. The historical beginning in 1934 would not have been possible without the insights and unselfish leadership of its founders, Russel Stanley “Rusty” Callow and Lev Brett, the architect. Callow first saw the need to provide a regatta for programs which did not have the resources to compete at the highest level and for emerging programs not ready to compete at the highest level. With stops at the University of Washington (1922-1927); the University of Pennsylvania (1927-1950); and the United States Naval Academy (1950-1959) where he coached the 1952 Olympic gold medal eight, Callow wanted to hold a race for his colleague and friend Harry Emerson “Dad” Vail. For the first race in 1934, Callow donated a trophy called the “Dad” Vail Trophy in honor of his friend who at the time was the coach at the University of Wisconsin which had limited resources, less than adequate workout space, and no indoor rowing tank. Callow wrote that Harry Emerson “Dad” Vail was a beloved person. He was called dad by his rowers and epitomized what the Dad Vail Regatta stands for in his caring for people, his display of sportsmanship, and his positive and persevering attitude. (U. T. Bradley, circa 1961). After the Dad Vail Regatta began in 1934, the founding members realized structure was needed for the regatta to grow and better serve its constituents. In 1939 the Dad Vail Regatta became organized with a slate of officers and a constitution thanks in large part to Lev Brett, who had the impetus for the formation and as a result the regatta became known as the Dad Vail Rowing Association. Another important change for the regatta came in 1989 when they became a 501(c)(3) so volunteers could be protected from the risks associated with being a part of the Dad Vail Regatta; this was a relatively new protection granted by the state of Pennsylvania for incorporated organizations. With this needed change, the Dad Vail Regatta’s corporate identity became the Dad Vail Regatta Organizing Committee. The Dad Vail Regatta and its leadership have changed over the years but the basic principle of providing a regatta that serves the interests and needs of all rowing programs has remained consistent throughout its 85-year history. The most recent change is having its first female President, Kirsten Ledwith Morasco to continue in the tradition of great leaders. Morasco exemplifies the importance of volunteerism and family involvement in running the Dad Vail Regatta. Her father, Matt Ledwith, long term Dad Vail Official, introduced his children to the enjoyment and rewards of working with other volunteers. Other outstanding leaders who preceded Morasco were Lev Brett (1939-1950), Anthony Savarese (1950-1952), Jim Nesworthy (1952-1954), Jack Bratten (1954-1966), Richard O’Brien (1966-1971), Tom Conville (1971-1977), Jack Galloway (1977-2001), and most recently Jim Hanna (2001-2023). The featured event of the Dad Vail Regatta has been the men’s and women’s varsity heavyweight eight. Throughout its history, which spans eight and half decades, five rowing programs helped develop their crews by competing in the Dad Vail Regatta before moving on to the IRA. These programs were Rutgers University with seven wins (1935-1942), Boston University with four victories (1947-1950), Dartmouth College with two (1954-1955), Brown University with three (1959-1961), and Northeastern University with one (1965). Marietta College won the first Dad Vail Regatta in 1934. The following year, Rutgers University began its seven-year win streak until the event had to be put on hold for four years (1943-1946) because of World War II. The success of Rutgers University in the 30s and 40s resulted in the retiring of the first “Dad” Vail Trophy to Rutgers, which coincided with Rutgers advancing to the IRA. In 1947 Lev Brett, Chair of the Board of Stewards, provided the second Dad Vail trophy which he presented to Head Coach James Nesworthy You are cordially invited to attend The President’s Press Conference in recognition of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. to be convened in the Camden County Boathouse Located at 7050 N. Park Drive, Pennsauken Township, NJ 08109 The winners of the 22nd Annual Art Poster Contest will also be honored! #001 presented by
Dad Vail Regatta of the of Boston University. In the 50s, LaSalle University twice won three consecutive men’s varsity eight races for a total of six victories (1951-1953 and 1956-1958). The 60s saw Georgetown University and Marietta College fighting it out for dominance with Georgetown winning four times (1962, 1964, 1968, and 1969) and Marietta with three victories (1963, 1967, and 1968). The 70s saw the emergence of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy who won six times (1972, and 1975-1979), The 80s began the long-term dominance of Temple University with six victories (1983-1987, and 1989) and Florida Tech (FIT) followed with two wins (1982 and 1988). The 90s were a complete dominance by Temple’s men’s varsity eight (1990-1999). The first decade of the 2000s saw three programs with at least two wins; Temple University with four (2000-2001 and 2003-2004), University of Michigan with two (2005 and 2009), and Purdue University with two (20072008). In the 2010’s decade, there were three programs with two victories; University of Michigan (2010 and 2011), Florida Tech (2015 and 2016), and Drexel University (2013 and 2017). The Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta was cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2020s-decade, Temple won in 2021 before Drexel registered two victories (2022 and 2023). The Dad Vail Regatta introduced women’s rowing competition in 1976 with the varsity eight as the featured event. Ithaca College won two out of the four varsity eight races in the 70s (1976 and 1979). In the 80s, Western Ontario won three times (1981,1982 and 1989) with the University of New Hampshire winning two (1985 and 1986). The only team in the 90s to win more than once was Temple University with two (1994 and 1996). The first decade of the 2000s saw the University of Massachusetts winning twice (2002 and 2003). In the 2010’s decade, the University of Massachusetts won three times (2014-2016) and Boston University won twice (2018 and 2019). The Dad Vail Regatta was cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2020s-decade, Drexel University won in 2021, Princeton University won in 2022, and Boston University won in 2023. The Jack Bratten Overall Point Trophy was established in 1967 to recognize the men’s overall champion, which in 1976 became the combined men’s and women’s overall champion. With the expansion of teams and events two additional all-point trophies were established in 1986: the Nancy J. Seitz Women’s All-Point Trophy and the Dr. Thomas Kerr Men’s All-Point Trophy. The traditions and practices of the Dad Vail Regatta are a big part of its success. A tented banquet is held on Friday evening following racing action to recognize volunteers for their service; to celebrate the 25th and 50th anniversary winners of the men’s and women’s varsity eights and to recognize the Coach of the Year along with the Volunteer of the Year. Volunteers who have been with the regatta for five years receive a Dad Vail Regatta Lapel Pin and volunteers who have been with the regatta for 10 years receive their highly coveted Gold Jacket. Another important tradition is showing appreciation for the communities surrounding the regatta by hosting an art poster contest for high school students and providing paid internships for the underrepresented population of local college students. It has always been a goal of the Dad Vail Regatta to provide the coaches and studentathletes with an experience that will last for a lifetime. References: Historical information provided by Jim Hanna, past president, Jack Galloway, past president and chair, and Ed Levin, Director of Publicity; U. T. Bradley (circa 1961). The Dad Vail Story. The Rollins Press, Inc.; and Ralph Lindamood (1994). Marietta Crew: A History of Rowing at Marieta College; and the Dad Vail Regatta web site. By Bill Jurgens
THE HISTORY OFWinners OF REGATTA Men’s Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT EIGHT 1934 Marietta 1935-42 Rutgers 1947-50 Boston U. 1951-53 La Salle 1954-55 Dartmouth 1956-58 La Salle 1959-61 Brown 1962 Georgetown 1963 Marietta 1964 Georgetown 1965 Northeastern 1966-67 Marietta 1968-69 Georgetown 1970 Saint Joseph’s U. 1971 Georgetown 1972 U.S. Coast Guard 1973-74 Massachusetts 1975-79 U.S. Coast Guard 1980 Massachusetts 1981 U.S. Coast Guard 1982 Florida I.T. 1983-87 Temple 1988 Florida I.T. 1989-01 Temple 2002 Dowling 2003-04 Temple 2005 Michigan U. 2006 Marietta 2007 Purdue 2008 Purdue 2009 Michigan U. 2010 Brock U. 2011 Michigan U. 2012 Michigan U. 2013 Drexel 2014 U. Massachusetts 2015 Florida I.T. 2016 Florida I.T. 2017 Drexel 2018 Temple 2019 Colgate 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Temple 2022 Drexel 2023 Drexel Women's Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT EIGHT 1976 Ithaca 1977 Western Ontario 1978 Wesleyan 1979 Ithaca 1980 Trinity 1981 Western Ontario 1982 Western Ontario 1983 Georgetown 1984 Minnesota 1985 New Hampshire 1986 New Hampshire 1987 Georgetown 1988 Minnesota 1989 Western Ontario 1990 Western Ontario 1991 U. Virginia 1992 U. S. Naval Academy 1993 Georgetown 1994 Temple 1995 U. Michigan 1996 Temple 1997 Western Ontario 1998 Purdue 1999 Villanova 2000 Villanova 2001 Boston College 2002 U. Massachusetts 2003 U. Massachusetts 2004 Sacramento State 2005 U. Connecticut 2006 Saint Joseph’s U. 2007 Purdue 2008 Cal. Davis 2009 Grand Valley 2010 Cal. Sacramento 2011 Purdue 2012 Duke 2013 Grand Valley 2014 U. Massachusetts 2015 U. Massachusetts 2016 U. Massachusetts 2017 Drexel 2018 Boston U. 2019 Boston U. 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Drexel 2022 Princeton 2023 Boston U. Women's Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT 8 DIV II 2005 Barry 2006 Barry 2008 Dowling 2009 Mercyhurst U. 2010 Mercyhurst U. 2011 Mercyhurst U. 2012 Mercyhurst U. 2013 Barry 2014 Nova Southeastern 2015 Barry 2016 Barry 2017 Central Oklahoma 2018 UC San Diego 2019 Florida Tech 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Mercyhurst U. 2022 Mercyhurst U. 2023 Embry Riddle Women's Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT 8 DIV III 2004 Marietta 2007 U. Rochester 2008 Dowling 2011 Marietta 2012 Marietta 2013 U. Rochester 2014 Marietta 2015 Marietta 2016 Ithaca 2017 Coast Guard 2019 Vassar 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Stockton 2022 Bryn Mawr 2023 Stockton Men’s Varsity LIGHTWEIGHT EIGHT 1971 Marietta 1972 U.S. Coast Guard 1973 Marietta 1974 Drexel 1975 Florida I.T. 1976 U.S. Coast Guard 1977 La Salle 1978 Toronto 1979 Western Ontario 1980 Trinity 1981 Trinity 1982 British Columbia 1983 Florida I.T. 1984 Rhode Island 1985 U.S. Coast Guard 1986 New Hampshire 1987 Florida I.T. 1988 Georgetown 1989 Georgetown 1990 Georgetown 1991 Rochester 1992 Western Ontario 1993 Western Ontario 1994 Marietta 1995 Toronto 1996 Florida I.T. 1997 Saint Joseph’s U. 1998 Florida I.T. 1999 Saint Joseph’s U. 2000 Purdue 2001 Villanova 2002 Fordham 2003 Delaware 2004 Boston College 2005 Boston College 2006 Georgia Tech 2007 Georgia Tech 2008 Fordham 2009 Delaware 2010 Mercyhurst 2011 Mercyhurst 2012 Mercyhurst 2013 Delaware 2014 M.I.T. 2015 Delaware 2016 Mercyhurst 2017 Delaware 2018 Mercyhurst 2019 Mercyhurst 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Mercyhurst 2022 M.I.T. 2023 M.I.T. DAD VAIL You are cordially invited to attend The President’s Press Conference in recognition of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. to be convened in the Camden County Boathouse Located at 7050 N. Park Drive, Pennsauken Township, NJ 08109 The winners of the 22nd Annual Art Poster Contest will also be honored! #001 presented by
Women's Varsity LIGHTWEIGHT EIGHT 1986 Lowell 1987 George Washington 1988 Cincinnati 1989 Washington U. 1990 George Washington 1991 Central Florida 1992 Florida I.T. 1993 Western Ontario 1994 Central Florida 1995 Central Florida 1996 Villanova 1997 Villanova 1998 Villanova 1999 Delaware 2000 U. Massachusetts 2001 Delaware 2002 Delaware 2003 Bucknell 2004 Purdue 2005 Dayton 2006 Dayton 2007 Ohio State 2008 Central Florida 2009 Bucknell 2010 U. Massachusetts 2011 Bucknell 2012 Bucknell 2013 Bucknell 2014 M.I.T. 2015 M.I.T. 2016 M.I.T. 2017 Boston U. 2019 Georgetown 2020 Pandemic Cancellation Men’s Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT FOUR 1979 Purdue 1980 Minnesota 1981 Marietta 1982 Tampa 1983 Tampa 1984 Ohio State 1985 Ohio State 1986 George Washington 1987 Minnesota 1988 Miami 1989 Michigan 1990 Connecticut C. 1991 La Salle 1992 British Columbia 1993 Jacksonville 1994 Florida I.T. 1995 Florida I.T. 1996 Minnesota 1997 Minnesota 1998 Minnesota 1999 Dowling 2000 Bowdoin 2001 Bowdoin 2002 Minnesota 2003 Grand Valley 2004 Georgia U. 2005 Dowling 2006 U. Cal Long Beach 2007 Dowling 2008 St. Thomas 2009 Dowling 2010 Grand Valley 2011 Georgia Tech 2012 Western Ontario 2013 Florida I.T. 2014 Colgate U. 2015 Brock U. 2016 Georgia Tech 2017 Georgia Tech 2018 Lafayette 2019 Oklahoma City 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Oklahoma City 2022 Florida I.T. 2023 Fairfield U. Women's Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT FOUR 1979 Central Florida 1980 West Virginia 1981 Wichita State 1982 Florida I.T. 1983 Simmons 1984 U.S. Coast Guard 1985 U.S. Coast Guard 1986 U.S. Coast Guard 1987 U.S. Coast Guard 1988 Kansas 1989 Central Florida 1990 George Washington 1991 McGill 1992 Western Ontario 1993 Vassar 1994 Western Ontario 1995 Minnesota 1996 Western Ontario 1997 Fordham 1998 Fordham 1999 Fordham 2000 Robert Morris 2001 Western Virginia 2002 Dowling 2003 Bowdoin 2004 Dowling 2005 Bowdoin 2006 Penn State 2007 San Diego 2008 Jacksonville 2009 Cal-Irvine 2010 Western Ontario 2011 Villanova 2012 Drake 2013 Western Ontario 2014 Bowdoin 2015 U. Massachusetts 2016 U. Massachusetts 2017 Lafayette 2018 Florida Tech 2019 Boston U. 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Princeton A 2022 Wisconsin 2023 Florida Tech Women's Varsity HEAVYWEIGHT 4 DIV II & III 2012 Nova Southeastern 2013 Bowdoin 2014 Humboldt 2015 Barry U. 2016 Barry U. 2017 Humboldt 2018 Barry U. 2019 Florida Tech 2020 Pandemic Cancellation 2021 Mercyhurst 2022 Embry Riddle 2023 Mercyhurst You are cordially invited to atte The President’s Press Confe in recognition of the Jefferson Dad Vail Regat Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 a to be convened in the Camden County Boathouse Located at 7050 N. Park Drive, Pennsauken Township, NJ 08109 The winners of the 22nd Annual Art P Contest will also be honored! presented by
DREXEL MEN’S ROWING PROGRAM CONTINUED TO ROW INTO HISTORY BOOKS AT JEFFERSON DAD VAIL REGATTA Each spring when the blue and gold blades hit the water Paul Savell, Drexel’s Director of Rowing/Men’s coach knows the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is quickly approaching. While the thought of the event brings a smile to his face he knows it will also bring plenty of challenges! “There are always anxious moments,” said Savell. “There are many talented crews at the event, and you always want to have your best result.” Last year those anxious moments Savell mentioned began as his team prepared to face tough competition in the Grand Finale of the Men’s Varsity Heavyweight Eight. With LaSalle on one side and Colgate on the other, Savell knew his team would have to be almost perfect if they were going to defend their title. When the final race started, all three teams came off the stake boats clean. At the midway point of the 2,000-meter course, LaSalle and Drexel began to separate themselves from the field. With the two clubs having tight races throughout the fall and spring seasons, Drexel senior coxswain Sam Desilva knew when it was time to tell his boat make their move. “Sam was very important because we were being pressed all the way down the course and he just kept up calm and focused under the pressure,” said Savell. With about 750 meters remaining, the Dragons ramped up their speed and opened up a three-seat lead and used that cushion to fend off a late LaSalle charge to earn the win and their second consecutive varsity eight crown! “It meant everything to see our crew execute a complete 2000-meter race, especially when they were able to fend off such talented competitors’ said Savell in a recent interview. “They rowed like they were bullet proof, defending any shots other boats were taking all the way down the course. Then finally to pull away in our sprint was pure beauty. It’s a testament to their hard work, determination and trust they had in each other. It was incredibly rewarding as a coach to see them achieve success on the Dad Vail stage.” Savell added, “The varsity eight win was a testament to the total team effort. Every member of the team, from the rowers to the coaches and support staff played a vital role in each of our boats’ great performance and the team title.” “When I was in high school, I always said I wanted to go to college and be on a team that won a lot of races,” said senior Josh Diggons, who rowed in the sixth seat. “This was the second year in a row we won the varsity eight. The experience is something I will never forget.” As they prepare for this year, Drexel is looking to become the first program since Temple (1999-01 – the last three of 13 in a row) to win three consecutive Varsity Heavyweight crowns. The 85th Annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, presented by Coca-Cola will be staged on the Cooper River, in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey on Friday, May 10, and Saturday, May 11.
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By Bill Fitzpatrick Returning in 1974 as defending Dad Vail Heavyweight Eight Varsity champions when we arrived in Philly on Mother’s Day weekend, the UMASS men’s rowing wanted nothing more to finish up Mike Vespoli’s last season as our coach with a victory. It was evident to all that Mike was very wary of complacency. We worked hard all winter with weights and in running the towers in the Grad Research Center. We had lost four powerful seniors from the crew that had blown away the field in the 1973 final. Men’s Rowing was, and still is a “club sport” at UMass, which means we had almost no budget. Mike coached us as a grad student, and we held raffles to help buy the ergometer that Mike wanted and a shiny new fiberglass eight (one of the first five built by Shoenbrod). Mike held up one of his U.S. rowing t-shirts as the prize for the top seller of raffle tickets, and I still have it in my drawer. Mike named the boat JPT (Just Plain Tough). We had won all of our races that season, but many of them were tight. We probably didn’t have the same overwhelming strength as the “73” crew, but we still had good power, and I believe we had some heart. We had a former prep school coxswain, Bruce Kline who had shown up out of nowhere to help us win those close races. Kline was dominant and ruthless in a race. He would laugh as he took advantage of every opportunity to get an edge, like a little Napoleon. When Mike tried to brief us on race strategy before the finals, Bruce took charge and then told all of us, “we’ll pull hard to get ahead, and then we’ll pull even harder to stay ahead.” We didn’t take the lead at the start, but we pulled ahead at 1200 meters and stayed ahead, winning by a half boat length. Bruce had it right again. Some of us were ill the night before but we all made it to the Blue Jay Restaurant on race day morning. Our coach, our stroke, Steve Loomer, and the coxswain, were probably the keys to our success, but the rest of us, Paul Gowen, Bill Fitzpatrick, Rich Clair, Kevin Conner, Jack Watkins, Peter Flood, and Peter Berg all pulled hard. Our stroke passed away far too soon in life, and he is still missed by many. Those of us who are still alive from that crew are getting old now, but we will always have our fond memories of the Dad Vail Regatta in 1974. 50YEARSAGO 1974 UMASS Crew Comes To Dad Vail Trying To Defend Men’s Varsity Eight Crown
THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY | JEFFERSON HEALTH | JEFFERSON HEALTH PLANS Creating Jefferson’s Third Century Who are we, you ask? We’re a national, professions-focused doctoral research university, a renowned health system and an award-winning non-profit health insurer. But we’re so much more. Jefferson is an institution of firsts, founded in Philadelphia, a city known for them. For 200 years, we’ve been redefining possible through our insatiable educators and innovators, our bold and curious researchers and our uncompromising caregivers and healers. Ours is a future-forward, global mindset – where change means opportunities for transformation in higher education, healthcare delivery and access. We’re in the business of shaping tomorrow’s leaders who thrive on boldly redefining what’s possible.
A national research doctoral university formed by one of the nation’s most innovative and successful mergers (Thomas Jefferson University + Philadelphia University), Jefferson is a professions-focused, global institution located in the heart of Philadelphia. We bring unrivaled innovation and discovery to higher education and prepare students for the future of work. How? Through high-stakes projects that cross industries and continents. Through a trademarked approach to education—Nexus Learning™—that shatters silos and cultivates collaboration. By implementing a Creativity Core Curriculum and design-thinking mentality at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in a variety of fields, including medicine, architecture, business, design, engineering, health, science, fashion, textiles, nursing and the social sciences. At Thomas Jefferson University, our students redefine possible. Celebrating 200 years—from here, we can go anywhere.
What is Nexus Learning™? No matter what students study at Jefferson, Nexus Learning is at the core of their academic experience. Nexus Learning is powered by action, collaboration, real-world situations and in-demand liberal arts skills. From working with students across majors to identifying and solving problems for Verizon or NASA to responding to national crises. From leading-edge equipment to mastering the art of intellectual risk-taking and learning that is borderless. Our goal is to make students not only successful, but iconic. ACTIVE Our students meet with congressional staff members in Washington, D.C.; win the World Sneaker Championship for an innovative shoe design; and design futuristic cities of 2050. Jefferson students design prosthetics to get surfers back on their boards; study fashion in Paris, global economics in Havana and biomimicry in Costa Rica: and help our neighbors register to vote and access absentee ballots for upcoming elections. Magic happens when students work across disciplines to solve industry challenges. For example, our industrial design, engineering and business students come together every year to develop new products for automotive components manufacturer Tenneco. Our Hallmarks Program empowers students to reach their full potential by teaching them to: • Question assumptions with rigorous inquiry and critical analysis. • Adapt to new challenges with contextual communication and global perspectives. • Contribute with intercultural insight and collaborative creation. • Act with confidence grounded in intellectual risk-taking and ethical reflection. ARCHITECTURE • BUSINESS • DESIGN • ENGINEERING • FASHION & TEXTILES • HEALTH • MEDICINE • NURSING • SCIENCE • SOCIAL SCIENCE REAL-WORLD COLLABORATIVE THE LIBERAL ARTS
25YEARSAGO Veteran Leadership and Young Talent Propel Owls to Summit By Temple University Athletics The Schuylkill River in Philadelphia has long been a stage for rowing excellence. Every spring, collegiate crews from across North America converge for the Dad Vail Regatta, the largest intercollegiate rowing event in the United States. For Temple University, as with many other schools around the country, Dad Vails hold a special significance. The 1998-99 season for Temple men’s crew wasn’t without its hurdles. Coach Gavin White, known for his ability to mold talented crews, faced a unique challenge. The team boasted a strong core of experienced rowers but integrating new faces and maintaining peak performance throughout a long season proved demanding. “We had a good mix of youth and experience,” recalls Dan McGuinn, who rowed in the fifth seat in the V8+. “There was definitely pressure to keep the winning streak alive, but Coach White did a fantastic job keeping us sharp mentally and physically prepared come Dad Vail.” Preparation was key. The grueling winter training regimen pushed the athletes to their limits. Early mornings spent on the Schuylkill, countless hours honing technique in the boathouse, and intense weight training sessions all laid the groundwork for success. The coaching staff, led by White, meticulously monitored progress, ensuring each rower peaked at the right moment. Throughout the season, the Owls faced stiff competition from local rivals in Drexel and La Salle but remained undefeated into the championship season. “We had a very strong season, an undefeated regular season to include a big win at the Big East Championships, the Murphy and Bergen Cups, as well as sweeping the Head of the Schuylkill,” said future Olympic gold medalist and stroke seat rower, Jason Read. “A year highlight was finishing a program best at Lake Carnegie’s Princeton Chase: third place in the (varsity) eight and second place in the (varsity) four.” As Dad Vail weekend approached, the anticipation in Philadelphia was palpable. Temple crew had a loyal following, and the city buzzed with excitement for the hometown heroes. The Schuylkill transformed into a spectacle, with cheering crowds lining the banks, eager to witness the culmination of months of sweat and dedication. “Dowling College (Long Island) was being pumped up as a rising national program,” said Read. “The river chatter was that Dowling may be a threat to Temple’s longstanding 16-year winning streak.” The 1999 Dad Vail Men’s Varsity Eight final was a nail-biter. Temple, known for their powerful starts, exploded off the line, but several crews stayed neck-andneck throughout the grueling 2,000-meter course. In the final stretch, the Owls found themselves locked in a battle with Saint Joseph’s as the two squads pulled into open water against powerhouses Michigan and Marist. With a final push and a roar from the crowd, Temple pulled away and crossed the finish line in 5:55.20, besting the Hawks by three seconds and once again etched its name onto the Dad Vail trophy. The elation that followed was indescribable. The rowers, exhausted but exhilarated, embraced their coaches and teammates. The years of relentless training, the sacrifices made, all culminated in this singular moment of triumph. The Dad Vail victory wasn’t just about winning a race; it was a validation of their dedication, a testament to the unwavering support system within the team, and a source of immense pride for the Temple University community. Today, the 1999 Dad Vail victory remains a cherished memory for the team members. It’s a story they share with pride, a reminder of the unwavering bond forged through shared struggle and ultimate triumph. The spirit of that win continues to inspire Temple men’s crew, pushing them to strive for excellence on the water and beyond.
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