The crew team participated in its first regatta May 7 after six months of training and practicing three times a week at Bladensburg Waterfront Park on the Anacostia River. The girls team faced neighboring high schools Blair, B-CC, Holton Arms, Whitman, Bishop Ireton, Saint John’s Academy and Whitman at the Thompson Boat Center in Georgetown. Its first regatta, originally scheduled April 14, was postponed due to high winds and dangerous rowing conditions

Coaches Chase Dowling and Richard Ryan and junior co-captains and co-founders Julianna Hsing and Alisa Dan have helped the team prepare for competition since its formation in November 2010.

“The team has become much more advanced since the start of this year,” Dan said. “Looking back to the fall when we could barely balance on a boat, to now, when we’re racing, is really astonishing.”

Student supporters are welcome and encouraged to attend all future regattas.

Churchill students are welcome at the regatta to provide support for our team,” Hsing said. “We will set up a tent at the regatta as our headquarters. 

Over the summer, rowers have the option to participate in a number of independent rowing programs recommended by the coaches. Practice over the summer is not mandatory.

The team looks forward to recruiting new members as the current season wraps up and lowerclassman fill spots left by graduating seniors.