Syracuse University Athletics

Syracuse University junior rower Mike Gennaro brought home the silver on the back of an electrifying sprint at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Racice, Czech Republic.

Sitting in fourth with less than 500 meters to go, the U.S. crew caught Germany and Canada at the line, taking second place behind New Zealand. While New Zealand grabbed the lead during the second quarter of the race, Canada and Germany battled it out for second with the U.S. lurking just behind. As the crews entered the final stretch, the American boat made its move, and as the crews crossed the finish line, the U.S. had edged out Germany by 0.42 seconds and Canada by 0.69 seconds. New Zealand won the race in a 5:54.49, with the U.S. finishing 1.31 seconds behind in a 5:55.80. Germany held on for the bronze medal, clocking a time of 5:56.22.

The 2009 IRA Regatta and the Syracuse University men’s season came to a close on Saturday, June 6 with five Orange boats in competition. The varsity eight crew was second in its petite final, placing eighth overall. It marked SU’s best finish since 2006, when it also placed eighth overall. The second varsity eight won its petite final, finishing seventh overall. The freshman eight was also second in its petite final, placing eight overall. The open four finished fifth overall and SU’s masters eight (alumni) was first. The Orange finished eighth in the Ten Eyck Team Championship with 124 points. SU was also second for the Champman Award for most improved team.