The Drexel women’s rowing team wrapped up their season at the CAA Championships this past Saturday, finishing in third place overall. They earned bronze medals in both the Varsity 4+ and Varsity 8+ events, while the 2nd and 3rd Varsity 8+ boats came in fourth.
Northeastern took the championship title for the 12th year in a row, scoring 42 points. UConn followed with 36 points, while Drexel finished with 28 points. Notable team members, Sabrina Batdorf, Ariana Townsend, and Hannah Walseth, were honored with selections to the All-CAA team.
In the Varsity 4+ race, the Dragons secured their first podium finish of the day. Rowers Laura Ludwick White, Katie O’Donnell (Coxswain), Kari Prosperi (Stroke), Hazel Danko, Paige Hartshorn, and River Trotter (Bow) crossed the line with a time of 7:24.029. They narrowly missed second place, finishing just 0.724 seconds behind UConn, who topped the event with a record-setting time of 7:20.309.
In the final race, the Varsity 8+ boat marked its 13th straight top-three finish at the CAA Championships. This crew, including Coxswain Lauren Shaw and Stroke Ariana Townsend, finished the race in 6:38.183. They overcame a slow start, edging past Villanova at the halfway point. Despite a strong push for second, Drexel had to settle for third as Northeastern held firm for second place.
Historical Comparisons
Reflecting on the past, Drexel’s rowing team has shown remarkable consistency over the years. Historically, putting together a competitive team in collegiate rowing can be a challenge, but Drexel has built a reputation for its strong performance and dedication.
Final Team Results
- Northeastern — 42
- UConn — 36
- Drexel — 28
- Villanova — 25
- UC San Diego — 16
- UAlbany — 9
- Monmouth — 4
Notable Results
Varsity 8+
- 1st: Northeastern — 6:28.229
- 2nd: UConn — 6:36.394
- 3rd: Drexel — 6:38.183
Varsity 4+
- 1st: Northeastern — 7:20.309
- 2nd: UConn — 7:23.305
- 3rd: Drexel — 7:24.029
As the season concludes, Drexel’s achievements serve as a testament to their hard work and commitment. With each race, they continue to build their legacy in collegiate rowing. Let’s look forward to what next season holds for these talented athletes!
