As one of the final races of the fall term, the Princeton Chase is another important event for US collegiate rowing to set the standard going into winter training. On the picturesque Lake Carnegie in Princeton, New Jersey, this three-mile race is composed of two straight-shots, one of which is on the Princeton two-kilometer course and a long turn.
This year’s lightweight women’s event features six crews, with Princeton, Radcliffe, and Georgetown all having entered an A and B eight respectively. All three programs recently faced off at the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR), where the close margins between them have set the stage for some more close racing at Princeton Chase.
Princeton University
Princeton enters the race with renewed confidence after finishing third at HOCR. Competing on their home waters will aid with an added advantage as they will be overly familiar with the course. Last year, they finished four seconds ahead of Radcliffe to earn gold, and they will be eager to repeat that success. With just over a week since HOCR, the team will have been focusing on refining their technique and maximizing their speed as a win would not only solidify their standing as a strong contender but also serve as a motivational boost as they look forward to the spring racing season.
Harvard Radcliffe Rowing
Radcliffe, having finished just two seconds behind Princeton at HOCR, are very motivated to challenge Princeton for the top spot in this race. Their performance at HOCR showed promise, but fell short of their 2023 victory. Their entered crews will be motivated to close the gap and prove themselves against their rivals. A victory here would not only validate their hard work but also build crucial momentum heading into the spring season. Radcliffe’s rowers are known for their resilience and tenacity, and they will be looking to be relentless in this race and claim the win.
Georgetown University
Lastly, Georgetown has also brought two crews to compete in this race, indicating their commitment to gaining valuable racing experience. Like Princeton and Radcliffe, they will have focused this leading week to the race to focus on reducing the margin that separated them from the leaders.
Prediction
The Lightweight Women’s Eights at Princeton Chase promises to be a fast and competitive race. With Princeton aiming to defend their title, Radcliffe eager to close the gap, and Georgetown looking to establish their competitiveness, the standards in this race will be set very high. I imagine Princeton will take the win this year, but it will be tight with Radcliffe, as at HOCR they were sepatared by less than 2 seconds.
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