ITHACA, N.Y. – The Ithaca College men's rowing team opened the 2026 championship season with a strong early test against regional competition, taking on Hobart, Hamilton, and Skidmore in a full day of racing under favorable conditions on Sunday as part of the Cayuga Duals. With temperatures beginning in the 30s and rising into the 50s, and a light quartering tailwind diminishing throughout the day, the Bombers were met with ideal early-season racing conditions.
 
"Given the circumstances with changing the day of competition and some last-minute lineup changes, I thought the group competed well and showed a lot of composure," said head coach Justin Stangel. "We weren't at full strength, but the guys stepped up and raced at a high level. It was great to get our season started and have some good results, especially in the second round of racing. I know we have more speed to gain as we continue our spring racing schedule."
 
Varsity 8
Ithaca opened the day against Hobart in the first round, fielding a reconfigured lineup that included a first year coxswain and several athletes stepping into new roles. Hobart gained an early advantage off the start, taking about a half-length lead while Ithaca battled to maintain overlap through the first 750 meters. Despite the effort, the Bombers were unable to match Hobart's pace in the second half as the margin widened.
 
In the second round, Ithaca responded well against Skidmore. Showing improved rhythm and connection off the line, the Bombers established control early and built a length lead within the opening minute. Ithaca extended its advantage through the midpoint and maintained separation to secure the win.
 
Second Varsity 8
The 2V8 faced a deep Hobart squad in the opening round, competing against both their second and third varsity entries. Ithaca showed composure early, staying in contact with Hobart's 3V through the first half before the opposition pulled away in the latter stages. 
 
Against Hamilton in the second round, the 2V8 delivered one of the day's more complete performances. With a strong start, they were able to find a consistent rhythm with length through the body of the race. The Bombers demonstrated adaptability in a lineup that saw multiple changes.
 
Varsity 4+
The varsity 4+ matched up with Hobart in their lone race of the day, focusing on efficiency and sustainable rhythm. The crew executed a consistent piece from start to finish, showing progress in key technical areas despite falling short in the results.
 
Results from each race including the women's program can be found here. A replay of the races can also be viewed here. Lineups from the day can also be viewed below.

Lineups

1V8		2V8		3V4+
Patterson	C	Adkins		Harkins	C
Detzer	8	Carnahan		Strong	4
Pellaton	7	Boswell		Makowsky	3
Dickey	6	Hersperger		Spencer	2
Coit	5	Covello		Kneale	1
Williston	4	Brighton
Fields	3	Hart
Adams	2	Strong
Greenberg	1	Stanford

 
Ithaca will return to action on April 4, when the Bombers host RIT, Marietta, and Williams in their final home regatta of the season. The program will also recognize its senior class following the conclusion of racing, which is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.