In a feat almost unprecedented in rowing competition, three Manhasset girls boats won gold medals at the Nov. 6 Long Island Frostbite Regatta held at the Sagamore Rowing Club. This was a sweep of the girls eights competition in which 20 Long Island High Schools participated. In addition to these wins, all of the other Manhasset boats medalled.

A week earlier, at the Head of the Schuykill races in Philadelphia, the Manhasset rowers competed against crews from all over the country, the Manhasset boys' four, stroked by senior and captain Chris Monahan, posted the fastest time in their race against 37 boats. In another event that day, the senior girls eight, stroked by senior and captain Mollie Panzer, beat all but one New York State boat and placed 20th among 73 boats in their race.

These two regattas culminated a Fall Campaign that began in August at the USMMA indoor rowing tanks. The 65 team members practiced for a week on technique, coordination and conditioning. On- water rowing sessions then moved to Bar Beach, the site of the new boathouse to be constructed this winter.

Coaches Steve Panzik and David Hilpl organized the crews into fours and eights. Early in the season they worked out the best combination of rowers who were tested at the Tail of the Fish Regatta, Saratoga Springs, NY and the Head of the Connecticut, Middletown, CT. Crew racing is a grueling sport requiring technique, strength and mental toughness to row at top speed for two to three miles. The team proved time and time again it was up to the challenge.

In the spring of 2005, the Crew team expects to race at seven regattas including the highly competitive Stotesbury Cup Races held in Philadelphia.

Parents and friends of Manhasset Crew who attended the regattas enjoyed cheering for the team while being fortified with elaborate meals prepared by the volunteer parent-chefs. The team wishes to thank all who have supported and encouraged them to the prominence achieved in five short years. Further success is anticipated.