Brentwood’s Row, Elk Lake’s Flow

Brentwood’s Rowing Program kicked off its season opener, competing in the Elk Lake Spring Regatta from March 8-9. This Regatta is an annual speed check for all crews as they gear up for spring racing in preparation for the Brentwood Regatta later this month and CSSRA’s in June. 

For many of Brentwood’s novice rowers, this marked their first real exposure to the competitive scene. As Mr. Brian Carr explains, “For the 60% of the Brentwood Rowing program, this was their first regatta, building excitement for the rest of the season.” This underscores Elk Lake’s role as an essential stepping stone for new members of the team. 

The 1,890-meter course saw competition from across Vancouver Island and the Mainland, with this year’s event standing out thanks to the exceptionally sunny and windless weather – an upgrade from previous years. As for the rowers, there is nothing – absolutely nothing – worth half so much as taking a stroke on a sunny and glassy course.

Many Brentwood rowers found success in their showings, but Novella R, Hope ‘25, had a particularly dominant showing, securing gold medals in the 2-, 4+, and 8+ events. Reflecting on this experience, Novella shared, “Elk Lake was an introductory regatta, and for many, it’s their first race, but for the experienced crew facing their rivals, it set a clear tone for the rest of the season. With a clean sweep in the pair, 4+ and 8+, I am very excited to keep building off of this as we head up to training camp and gear up for Maple Bay April 12 & 13.” 

The Senior Women’s team delivered a standout performance, overcoming their rivals from Victoria City Rowing Club and securing first, second, and third in the U19 Women’s 2- and first in the 4+ and 8+. Chloé D, Alex ‘26 captured the team morale perfectly: “The team pulled through together to support each other and come out with great results.” 

Brentwood’s success at Elk Lake extends beyond both the Senior Men and Women’s programs, with additional gold medal finishes in multiple categories:

• U17 Women’s 8+

• U17 Men’s 8+

• U17 Men’s 4+

• U17 Men’s 1x (Arnie M)

With power, precision, and perseverance, Brentwood rowers propelled past the competition into a strong start to the season. The team has set the stage for an exciting spring of racing. As they look forward to the Maple Bay Regatta next weekend, they remain focused on pushing their limits. 

Row Brentwood!

Grace S, Allard ‘25