By Nick Gasparro
Chula Vista, CA – From March 16th to March 24th, 2024, the University of Washington Men’s Rowing Team embarked on an intensive spring training camp at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center (CVEATC). With a strong contingent of 60 athletes and staff in attendance, the camp proved to be a pivotal period for honing skills and fostering team unity.
This spring training camp marked the fifth visit to the CVEATC for the UW men’s rowing program, who have been training here on a consistent basis since 2018. The significance of their return was amplified by the recent cinematic portrayal of their program in “The Boys in the Boat,” a Hollywood film that immortalized their legacy and celebrated their remarkable achievements in the 1936 Summer Olympic Games.
Nestled within the state-of-the-art facilities of the CVEATC, UW rowers were granted access to an array of resources conducive to elite athletic development. They utilized the center’s boathouse and picturesque lake for rigorous on-water training sessions, while also benefiting from the top-tier strength and conditioning center to enhance their physical prowess.
In addition to the athletic amenities, the team found respite in the CVEATC’s dormitories and dined at the facility’s nourishing dining hall, ensuring that they were well-prepared and fueled for their demanding training regimen.
A highlight of the camp was the opportunity for competitive racing, with showdowns against formidable opponents from UC San Diego and the University of San Diego. In the duel against UCSD, Washington’s dominance was palpable, as showcased by their remarkable performances. UW’s “A” crew set the pace with a scintillating victory in 5:51.31, leading the charge ahead of their “B” and “C” counterparts, as well as UCSD’s 1V and 2V crews.
The encounter with the University of San Diego provided another platform for UW to exhibit their prowess on the water. In a series of closely contested races, UW crew displayed their tenacity and skill, securing victories in both Race 1 and Race 2. The triumphs of UW crew spring break races underscored their unwavering dedication and the effectiveness of their training regime.
As the University of Washington Men’s Rowing Team concludes their spring training camp at the CVEATC, they depart with a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie, poised to conquer the challenges that lie ahead on their journey to excellence in the 2024 NCAA rowing season.
