Results: https://www.crewtimer.com/regatta/r15135

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - The Ithaca College men's rowing team opened its fall racing season this past weekend at the Head of the Genesee Regatta, competing under classic October conditions — temperatures in the 50's with light rain and a minimal tailwind. It was a great day to race and an opportunity to set the tone for the season ahead.
 
Throughout the fall, the Bombers have emphasized adaptability, mixing lineups and testing new combinations. Final lineups for the Genesee were set midweek, giving crews limited time to prepare, but the team rose to the challenge.
 
"We talk as a team about giving 100% of yourself to each piece, and I believe we executed on that," said head coach Justin Stangel. "Overall, I was pleased with how everyone raced."
 
Fours Show Depth and Determination
Despite having less than a full practice together, both Bomber fours performed well. The A Four, made up of three members from the 1V and one from the 2V, and the B Four, featuring one from the 2V and three from the 3V, both finished in the top half of a 13-boat field, placing third and sixth, respectively.
 
Eights Establish Early Momentum
The eights faced similar preparation challenges but maintained focus and composure on race day. The 1V Eight turned in a strong performance, finishing third overall, just three seconds behind first-place Hobart and less than a second behind Hobart's 2V.
 
"You never really know what's happening in another program, but it was great to be within striking distance of a quality opponent," Stangel said.
 
The 2V Eight placed eighth, showing potential for improvement as the team continues to develop speed and consistency. "It was a respectable result, but we know we can be sharper," Stangel added.

Looking Ahead
With the first competition of the season complete, the Bombers now have a strong foundation for the weeks ahead.
 
"It was a great day to be a Bomber," said Stangel. "We've laid down a solid benchmark for the rest of the fall. The depth in our boathouse is there — now it's about showing that on the water."
 
The Bombers will return to action Monday for the Freeman Cup intersquad scrimmage and then at the Head of the Fish Regatta in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Saturday, October 25.