The Laker Navy left their host families in Atlantic County early Thursday morning to travel into the city of Philadelphia, PA for their final preparation for the Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta. After landing a prime parking spot under the ‘Three Angels’, the team rigged and launched quickly for a pre-race rehearsal swing over the course. The extra practice in the windy conditions may prove valuable as the forecast calls for high wind this weekend. Following the practice, the team anchored the boats down and walked to Penn AC for a luncheon hosted by GVSU alums Dana Schmunk ’98 and Ross Anderson ’06. The lunch gave the young Lakers a chance to soak in the tradition of Penn AC and boathouse row.

The Thursday practice marked the completion of the Dad Vail training camp. The team would like to thank its gracious hosts in Atlantic County for housing and feeding the near 70 athletes over the course of the week. Each and every host family went above and beyond, and the entire team sends out a gracious thank you.

Friday marks the start of the regatta with heats kicking off at 7:00am and wrapping up at 4:36pm. Grand Valley State has nine boats entered that are competing in the heats for a chance to advance to the semi-finals and finals on Saturday, May 8th.

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