Minnesota Rowing Gears Up for the Thrilling Big Ten Invitational
Minneapolis, MN – The University of Minnesota Rowing team’s competitive spirit is set to take center stage as they travel to the sunny shores of Florida for the Big Ten Invitational. Scheduled for April 18-19 at the scenic Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, this exhilarating event promises a thrilling showdown among some of the top collegiate rowing programs in the country.
Race Weekend Schedule and Coverage
The Golden Gophers will dive into action with a full lineup of seven boats, kicking off the competition on Friday at 9:30 a.m. (CT). The day will feature exciting races every hour, culminating in an intense afternoon session beginning at 1:25 p.m. (CT). Saturday morning will demand early rising, with session three starting at 7:50 a.m. (CT). Fans can catch all the live action through RHStv, with streaming options available on Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV.
The Road to Florida: Recent Performances
This weekend marks the third consecutive week on the water for Minnesota. After strong showings at the Rocky Top Invitational and the Big 12/Big Ten Double Duel, the Gophers are eager to build off their recent momentum. They’ll face off against 19 different programs, including nine Big Ten rivals—a compelling challenge that includes 13 squads ranked in the latest CRCA/Pocock national polls.
Participating Teams
The competition will feature an impressive lineup, showcasing both conference stalwarts and formidable challengers:
Big Ten Teams
- No. 21 Indiana
- Iowa
- No. 12 Michigan
- Michigan State
- Minnesota
- No. 14 Ohio State
- No. 9 Rutgers
- UCLA
- No. 24 USC
- No. 3 Washington
- Wisconsin
Guest Invitees
- Alabama
- No. 7 Brown
- Clemson
- No. 16 Duke
- No. 18 Harvard/Radcliffe
- Miami
- Notre Dame
- No. 20 Oklahoma
- No. 17 Oregon State
- No. 11 Penn
- SMU
- No. 6 Tennessee
Projected Schedule for Minnesota (CT, Times Subject to Change)
Friday Morning
- 9:30 a.m. – 2V4 Flight 4 (vs. Oklahoma, Brown, Rutgers, Alabama)
- 10:00 a.m. – 1V8 Flight 4 (vs. Oklahoma, Brown, Rutgers, Alabama)
- 10:30 a.m. – 4V8 Flight 1 (vs. Michigan, Indiana, Ohio State)
Friday Afternoon
- 1:25 p.m. – 4V8 Flight 1 (vs. Rutgers, Miami, Michigan, Iowa)
- 4:55 p.m. – 1V4 Flight 4 (vs. Michigan State, Notre Dame, USC, Oregon State, Clemson)
Saturday Morning
- 7:50 a.m. – 3V8 Flight 3 (vs. Iowa, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Clemson, Michigan State)
- 9:50 a.m. – 1V8 Flight 3 (vs. Miami, Notre Dame, UCLA, Harvard/Radcliffe, Wisconsin)
Meet the Gophers: Projected Lineup
1V8
- Coxswain: Ashley Ohlemacher
- Rowers: Madeline Fincham, Ella Saunders, Josefine Freltoft, Manon Field, Tallulah Sweet, Lexi Schimnowski
2V8
- Coxswain: Radhika Ajmera
- Rowers: Anna Stephenson, Kimberly Klassen
From the Heart of a Captain
Reflecting on the upcoming invitational, senior captain Tallulah Sweet declared, "The Big Ten Invite is the most competitive race that we get to be a part of, making it an exciting way to cap off our racing schedule before B1Gs in May. Our team is ready to face formidable opponents and utilize the insights we’ve gained from past races. Row Gophs!"
Performances That Ignite Hope
Minnesota recently dominated at the Big 12/Big Ten Double Duel, securing perfect results on opening day and showcasing resilience and determination. With their momentum building, the Gophers’ First Varsity Four crew was even recognized as the B1G Boat of the Week for their remarkable performance, shaking up their competitors with swift victories.
Looking Ahead: Leadership and Excellence
Announcing captains for the 2024-25 season, the Gophers solidify their leadership with Tallulah Sweet, along with Manon Field and Ella Saunders, promising guidance and strength.
A Commitment to Academic Success
Not just an athletic powerhouse, Minnesota rowing also shines academically. The program was honored with the Gladys Brooks Commitment to Academic Excellence Award, reflecting their stellar 3.48 GPA. They continue to excel both in and out of the boat, an inspiring testament to the Gophers’ dedication.
As the Golden Gophers prepare for the Big Ten Invitational, the excitement is palpable. With competitive energy in the air, fans and athletes alike eagerly await what promises to be a memorable weekend of rowing. Go Gophers!
