OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — Stetson rowing opened competition at the 2026 Southern Intercollegiate Rowing Association (SIRA) Championship on Saturday at Melton Lake, turning in several strong performances against a deep field of national competition.
On the women's side, the Hatters competed in multiple Varsity 4+ and Varsity 8+ events. Stetson's Varsity 4+ crew posted a time of 8:00.285 in the morning session, while later racing in the afternoon saw the Hatters record an 8:29.532 finish in the Women's Varsity 4+ (Open).
In the Women's Varsity 8+ (Open), Stetson clocked a time of 7:10.221 to place fourth in a competitive heat that featured several nationally recognized programs. The Hatters returned in the afternoon session and recorded a 7:18.152 finish, continuing to gain experience against a strong field.
The men's crews also delivered solid results throughout the day. Stetson's Varsity 8+ crew highlighted the morning session with a 6:08.743 finish, placing first in its heat to advance. Later in the afternoon, the Hatters followed with another strong showing, posting a 6:05.856 time in the Varsity 8+ to finish third in a tightly contested race.
In the Men's Second Varsity 8+, Stetson recorded a 6:18.404 time in the morning session before turning in a 6:43.649 finish later in the day.
Stetson also competed in the Women's 2-, finishing with a time of 11:39.515, gaining valuable championship experience.
The Hatters will return to the water on Sunday for the final day of competition at the SIRA Championship as they look to build on a productive opening day.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
