Chicago Boat Race Results

The 2nd Annual Chicago Boat Race was completed this past weekend in support of Recovery-on-Water (ROW). Prior to the event, rowers from Illinois and the University of Chicago raised money for ROW, a rowing club dedicated to survivors of breast cancer. All races were raced over the South Branch of the Chicago River between starting West of the Pulaski Bridge and finishing under the Ashland Bridge.The Novice squads competed in the first two races of the day. In both races, the Fighting Illini opened up early leads on their competitors and pushed their advantage. The Men's novice won by well open, while the two Novice Women's crews won by well open and 5 boat lengths open water.The Varsity crews rowed for the Chicago Boat Race trophies. In the Varsity Men's 8+, Illinois' 1V pulled out to a commanding lead. The Chicago 1V pushed to a 1 boat length lead over the Illinois 2V before colliding with a log and losing their skegs. It was a disappointing finish for the Chicago men's team who were unable to complete the race at pressure as a result of the injury to the boat. Illinois' 1V recaptured the Chicago Boat Race trophy after winning over Northwestern last year.The Varsity Women's race saw a reversal of the trend shown throughout the earlier racing. Chicago pulled ahead early in the race, overstroking the conservative Illinois crew. Illinois managed to bring up the rating and push back into Chicago, but Chicago was able to respond a increase the margin. Illinois never regained contact, and lost by a margin of 4 boat lengths - the closest margin of the day. Chicago won the Chicago Boat Race trophy for the first time, and continues their winning streak to Illinois since Illinois' upset victory at the State Championships last year.Finally, Illinois won the Race-4-Row trophy after having raised the largest amount for ROW during their campaign. To date, Illinois has not lost the Race-4-Row trophy having raised over $10k during the last two campaigns. Illinois and Chicago have tentatively planned the next race for October 24th, 2015.