Deerfield Academy’s rowing team made an unforgettable splash at the New England Interscholastic Rowing Association (NEIRAs) Regatta this weekend, sweeping both the boys’ and girls’ divisions. With three eight-man boats competing in each category, Deerfield outpaced 11 other skilled schools on the challenging waters of Lake Quinsigamond in Worcester, Massachusetts. At the end of the day, both boys’ and girls’ teams stood proudly at the top, securing the championship.
Deerfield’s third varsity girls (G3V8) put on an extraordinary display, winning their heat with a time of 5:34.842, significantly ahead of St. Paul’s (5:43.058) and Hingham (5:46.870). In the final, Deerfield held their momentum, winning with an impressive 5:15.030.
Deerfield’s second varsity crew (G2V8) set the pace in their heat, finishing with a comfortable (5:19.500), ahead of Hingham (5:30.541). Their speed didn’t falter in the final, as they posted an even faster time of 5:00.646, claiming the victory.
The first varsity girls’ boat (G1V8) set a strong foundation with a heat time of 5:05.502, finishing ahead of Bedford (5:09.688). In a tight final, Deerfield placed second with a time of 4:58.767, just behind Exeter (4:54.445), but well ahead of the third-place finisher Andover (5:01.673).
Deerfield’s boys’ third varsity boat (B3V8) dominated their heat, finishing in 4:53.736, well before St. John’s (4:58.136) and BC High (5:00.432). They kept the intensity high, clinching the victory in the final with a stellar time of 4:40.704, just passing Exeter (4:41.770).
The second varsity boys (B2V8) came in with a strong performance, securing first in their heat with ease in 4:34.001, before BC High (4:43.799). In the final, they continued to fuel their momentum, finishing first in 4:22.169, well ahead of Kent (4:33.997).
The first varsity boys’ boat (B1V8) set a solid pace in their preliminary heat with a time of 4:30.305, out rowing St. John’s (4:35.565) and Salisbury (4:37.237). The crew delivered an exceptional performance in the final, crossing the finish line with an outstanding time of 4:13.962 to capture the top spot over Exeter (4:16.412).
Throughout the regatta, Deerfield’s rowers showcased not only their talent, but their unity and discipline that comes from strong leadership and consistent training. The crew’s ability to compete under pressure in both the heats and the finals is a testament to their preparation and mental toughness. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams clinched the overall victory by accumulating the highest number of points across all events. This first-place sweep reflects the depth of talent amongst Deerfield rowers.
Congratulations to our rowing teams on their stunning success this season and at NEIRAs!