Head of the Charles: Saturday Noon Update

The Fighting Illini crews in Boston are having a rest day, but their coaching staff is seeing action in several events. Assistant Coach Nate Colgan is starting the day rowing for his Alma Mater MIT in the Mens Alumni 8+. Novice Women's Coach Michelle Victora is coxing MIT in the next event, the Women's Alumni 8+. Finally, Assistant Coach and Program Director Bill Grier is rowing for the Michigan Alumni in the Men's Club 8+. Assistant Coach Samantha Polak will be going off as bow #1 in the Championship Women's 4+ for the New York AC on Sunday.The Fighting Illini, who practiced on the course Friday, will be going off Sunday afternoon. The Illinois Men's Collegiate 4+ (1:15pm) will be starting the Sunday's racing for the Illini. The Men's crew will be starting with bow #13 in the top half of the pack. The Men's 4+ qualified for this event last year and will be looking to improve on their placing from last year. The Women's Collegiate 8+ will follow at 3:31pm starting with bow #24. This is the first time Illinois has raced an 8+ at the Charles and will be looking to cement their presence in this event by finishing in the top-14 to earn a qualifying spot for next year.Racing updates will continue throughout the weekend.