Spring! What a fantastic invention!

The vernal equinox arrived this morning at 5:14, in typical gloomy Oregonian fashion. None to fear, however, as good weather is on the horizon for next week.

Last week was an interesting one, just to keep on the weather theme. The Willamette can be a bit tetchy about being rowed on -- the water is high and very fast. This sort of condition allows us to work in large boats if possible, but smaller boats would have an overwhelming "downtown express" feel and could be spun around in whirlpools and standing waves.  Trending puts this river condition for the next couple of days.

That does not mean that we aren't working hard! Yesterday's 2k test was proved that we have put in some good hours. With one unexpected exception (sweaty hands + relaxed grip = whoops!), everyone is improving! Well done all!

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Some notes from the "Fashion page"- We are always going on and on about the right things to wear during practice- What about after practice? Please make sure you are going from just-got-dumped-on-by-the-boat-shower-which-is-why-im-soaking-wet to warm and dry! We have plenty of places to change, including a new changing room in the first bay behind the singles (look for the blue curtain).  If you are lacking dry garb, please ask one of us, and we can most likely drum something up that you can return the next day.  To help with this, find the ORU Rowers Handbook as one of the attachments to this email.
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Waivers are due again! I have attached the different forms you have to fill out- here is the run-down;

If you are NEW (to rowing or ORU)
you have to fill out-

Medical Release/waiver
Swim test

If you are RETURNING
Medical Release/Waiver

Please fill out and return to the coaching staff ASAP!

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Finally this brings us to the Covered Bridge Regatta, less than a month away.  As some of you heard yesterday, we need commitments from all those who wish to race no later than by practice Monday, March 26. I will have a invoice for all rowers participating by the next day and must receive a check for your portion of entry fees by that FRIDAY, March 30. The regatta is:

April 13 - Travel Day (evening) and the Dexter Dine/Dash for Masters- I expect most people to be in the Eugene area Friday night so that travel on Saturday is kept to a minimum. The coaches/coxswains meeting is at 6:15 a.m. Sat.

April 14 - Race Day

April 15- (morning) Race and Finals

We will be organizing food details with parents/boosters, etc, as the event nears and we have a good handle on the number of participants. Camping is possible at Dexter Lake, with a $25 fee for tent sites and RV spaces.  Please indicate your intention as to whether you want to camp, as it is part of the registration process for the event.  FYI, Charley intends to use the tent area.