Gold and 2 Silvers in the 8+'s to Start 2012-2013 Season

The Fighting Illini started their season with a win in the Novice Men's 8+, and two close 2nd place finishes in the Novice Women's 8+ and Varsity Men's 8+ at the Quad Cities Classic in Moline, IL. The 4000m race was plagued by heavy rain and wind, but the Illini persevered by making the podium in every 8+ event this year - a first at this regatta. The Novice Men keep the streak alive after last year's 3-way tie for first by winning outright this season. The Novice Women's 8+, who fielded a boat for the first time in this event, took home silver a mere 8 seconds out of first. The Varsity Men's 8+ fell 6 seconds shy of Washington University and first place, but posted their best ever finish in this event.The Varsity Women's 4+ rowed a conservative race and slipped to 4th, just missing the podium. The Women's 2nd Novice 4+ rowed a well fought race, also coming 4th place. The 2nd Varsity Men's 4+ rowed a tough field, but managed an impressive 5th place. The day was rounded out by the 2nd Novice Men's 4+ who finished 10th in their event.This was the first Head Race for many of the athletes on the team, specifically the 35 Novice rowers who joined this Fall. The Illini posted great times and demonstrated an ability to win in collegiate competition. They hope to ride these victories into Sunday's race in Rockford, IL.