Last weekend (04/02) the University of St. Thomas Sailing Team drove 9 hours to compete at Grand Valley State's Laker Showdown in Macatawa, Michigan.
For the first time this spring, the UST Sailing Team hit the road to race. Driving across four states to Michigan, they had a lot of time to get to know each other and grow closer as a team. Attending the regatta were sophomores Rachel Bartel, Conall Lynch, Meriah Kirschstein, Livia Wagner, and freshman Greg Bittle.
In Michigan, the team was met with cold, wind, and a little snow. Nothing these Midwesterners were not acquainted with. Along with St. Thomas, teams from Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Illinois attended. Racing only took place the first day, with scarce wind in Macatawa Bay and snow in the forecast, St. Thomas dominated their four rotations. Of course, the team wished for more races and time on the water, with National Qualifiers coming up this weekend (04/09), and Wayzata Bay still frozen, water time was valuable. Ending with both A and B divisions getting first, as well as first overall for the team, they were proud. Though it may seem like nine hours for one day of racing isn't worth it, the team succeeded, performed well, and made the most out of this trip.
Overall pleased with their performance, this travel team is looking forward to National Qualifiers hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Though they know they will be met with fierce competition and renowned teams, the UST sailors are keeping their eyes set on first place. With one more regatta this season after Qualifiers, the team is hoping to keep their name on the map and make the best of this spring season.
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