Cal Duo Battles Wind In Semifinals Race

HENLEY, UK – Cal women's rowing returned to the water at the Henley Royal Regatta on Saturday, capping off their first-ever appearance at the historic race.

"Our team's racing ended today with our pair being eliminated in a hard fought semifinal," head coach Al Acosta said. "The wind was pretty nasty and I think the race took about two minutes more than it should have. But Lucine and Fien did a great job managing the conditions and pressing Leander all the way down the course. Tomorrow we'll be at the course to cheer on our men's eight in the final of the Ladies' Plate and Rowan McKellar ('17) as she and team GB will take on Australia."

The coxless pair of Lucine Ahyi and Fien van Westreenen faced the duo Campbell-Orde and Heathe from the Leander Club in the semifinals race of the Hambleden Pairs Challenge Cup early Saturday morning. They had a strong start steering out onto the course, but gusty wind conditions made for a difficult race. Ahyi and van Westreenen ultimately fell to their opponents, knocking them out of the next round of competition.

With this race, Cal women's rowing closes out their debut at the historic Henley Royal Regatta.

"This has been an amazing experience for the team to train and compete in the birthplace of our sport," Acosta added. "I know we've all learned a ton that we can apply to next year's season. We certainly hope to be back here in another four years. Lastly, none of this would be possible without the support of our alums and parents. Cal Crew '22 are eternally grateful for their support."

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