Head of the Charles 2023 – Women’s Championship Eight Preview

Author: Fraser Innes

Date of Publication: October 18, 2023

Hey there, fellow rowing enthusiasts! The Head of the Charles 2023 is almost upon us, and it's time to get excited about the Women's Championship Eight race. This year's competition is set to be an absolute thriller, with a whopping thirty-four entries on the start list. We've got an abundance of talent hitting the water, making it an event you don't want to miss.

Leander Club, the defending champions, are making the journey across the Atlantic once again to prove their mettle. But they're not just up against any competition. Nine of the top eleven collegiate eights from the NCAA National Championships in May are here to raise the curtain on their season. Add in the twisty and challenging course of the Charles River through Cambridge, and you've got the recipe for one of the most exciting races of the weekend.

Wesley Ng and the University of Pennsylvania

One name that's making waves in the world of women's rowing is Wesley Ng. He's the coach of the University of Pennsylvania's women's rowing team, and his impact has been nothing short of remarkable. Under his leadership, the University of Pennsylvania Quakers have seen a resurgence in their rowing program.

Back in 2015, when Ng took the reins, Penn was considered one of the weaker programs in the Ivy League. Fast forward to today, and they're celebrating a second-place finish at the Ivy League Championships. Ng's coaching prowess earned him the prestigious Division 1 Coach of the Year title, thanks to guiding the first boat to a fantastic fourth-place finish at the NCAA Championships. To top it off, they also made an impressive run at the Henley Royal Regatta, coming incredibly close to winning the Island Challenge Cup.

What's particularly exciting about this upcoming season is that Ng has retained six athletes from the first boat at NCAAs and seven of the eight rowers who made it to the Sunday races at Henley. This solid core of experienced rowers, combined with Ng's expertise, sets the stage for a thrilling season opener.

As we gear up for the Head of the Charles 2023, keep a close eye on the University of Pennsylvania. Wesley Ng and his talented team are on the cusp of achieving something truly remarkable in the world of women's rowing. This season promises to be one for the books, and we can't wait to see them in action on the Charles River. Stay tuned for what's sure to be an exhilarating race!

Image source: Penn Athletics