Nov. 4, 2007

CHICAGO - Michigan State's varsity rowing boats gave strong performances at the Chicago Head Races Sunday afternoon. Three varsity eight boats and three novice boats competed for MSU against Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Notre Dame and Wisconsin.

"They really stepped up for the afternoon races after their runs in the morning. We felt like we needed to prove ourselves, and we definitely did that," said head coach Matt Weise.

The varsity eight took second, clocking in at 6:45.767, behind Wisconsin's 6:45.499 in flight A; Michigan finished third and Minnesota finished fourth. In fight C, the Spartans finished in 6:54.915 for second place behind Minnesota. The Golden Gophers' second boat in the fight placed third while Michigan came in fourth. MSU's entry in flight D boat won its event in 6:49.755 over Wisconsin and two Notre Dame boats.

The Spartans will break from competition until resuming action in the spring, traveling to Clemson, S.C., to take on the Tigers on Wednesday, March 5.