SHELTON, Conn. – The inaugural Pio-Stag Cup took place this morning on the Housatonic River with Fairfield's varsity eight edging the Sacred Heart women by nine seconds over the 2,000-meter course.

The racing started at 8 a.m. with the 2V event. SHU was down with open water at the halfway mark before making a move to win by eight seconds.

"We made a move and walked back through Fairfield," said Sacred Heart Head Coach Lucas Wilhelm. "We never looked back."

The Pio 3v was also in that event and lost a close race after locking horns with Vassar's top 8 for the entire race.

The SHU four was dominant from wire to wire through the whole series of races. "I am very proud of the way their season has progressed. It is a testament to our depth, our toughness, and the great coaching from Dawson (Shyne-Appignani), who leads that group every year to big performances," said Wilhelm. 

The final event was the 1V battle for the new Cup. Fairfield got out to a great start, and SHU never had an answer.

"Our top SHU boat had a last-minute lineup change due to an accident, and they never found the same rhythm they've had in practice this week," said Wilhelm. "Congratulations to the Stags for the big win, we look forward to the next round of the rivalry. We will pick up where we left off next week and find the final push to our MAAC championships." 

The Pioneers were rowing with someone in mind today. "We all raced on team Ponte," said Wilhelm. "SHU Rowing is pulling with Mr. Joe Ponte in his good fight against cancer."

Today was the final race at home for the Pio seniors and grad students. According to the SHU Coaches, Sophia Gatto, Sara Bojorque, Adrianna Lamano, Alyssa Parades, Alissa Cooke and Amanda Rego have been crucial in the program's success. The team has been built through their vision and hard work. 

"We also want to thank our parents for always creating the most fun and supportive environment in rowing. We eat well, we cheer loudly, and we always feel blessed to have such a strong fan base with us," said Wilhelm.

 

Varsity 8
Fairfield	7:05.2
Sacred Heart	7:14.3
2nd Varsity 8
Sacred Heart	7:17.9
Fairfield	7:26.0
Vassar	7:39.6
Sacred Heart 3V	7:43.5

 

Varsity Four
Sacred Heart	8:15.2
Fairfield	8:41.2