LEONIA, NJ - Iona's lightweight four rowed to victory over a crew from Harvard in the morning and then again over Cal in the afternoon, both in convincing fashion.  The Gaels were able to find their rhythm and base speed early on in both races behind stroke man Francis Acolitse.  The weather certainly played a role throughout the day as wind gusts of 20mph produced rough water especially in the second half of the race course. But Iona was able to maintain their composure and balance as the course became more challenging. 

Morning Session

Iona 7:41.2
Harvard C 8:12.9

Afternoon Session 

Iona 7:32.8
Cal 7:46.1

Coaches COMMENTS

"There were a lot of eyeballs on this regatta within the rowing community", said coach John Boyd.  "This was the largest collection of lightweight rowing programs in any collegiate regatta this year and while Iona isn't a national name when you think of lightweight rowing, to have an opportunity to line up against the likes of Harvard and Cal with shirts on the line, you don't want to waste it.  We're thankful for Columbia hosting this wonderful event."

UP NEXT

Up next for the lightweight four will be a tough race at the Knecht Cup next Sunday morning at the Cooper River.  Their opponents will be La Salle University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Mercyhurst University, and Rollins College. The rest of the men's team will be back in action next weekend at the Knecht Cup as well.  The Gaels will compete in a novice 4, varsity pair, and the varsity eight.