The Hooch represents the culmination of our efforts as a team this year. The success of our crews is due to the effort we all put into the sport and the support we get from each other and our families.
The arc of the season is long and began in the spring as we geared up for Dogwood. After our successes there, the Men's 8+, 4X, 4+, 2X and 1X toiled through the summer to get ready for World Master's in Spain. Many in the club helped with this effort by going out in various lineups so everyone could improve fitness and technique. Spain was a treat for all. Not just the rowing!
The concern about a quick transition from sprint racing to head racing proved to be unfounded. The Men's 8+ had a near perfect race at the Hooch. Beth steered down the course like she owned it. She does! The boat felt relaxed and was able to keep the power on throughout. Note the picture of the trophy we were awarded.
The M8+ has won the Men's 8+ since 2019 (I didn't look further back) with the exceptions of 2023 when we got Chinooked and 2020 when there was no regatta.