As other varsity sports wrapped up their seasons, some Pelican-athletes continued long into the spring on club sports teams. From June 6 to 9 in Sarasota, Florida, sophomore Lila Caminiti competed at the 2019 USRowing Youth National Championships along with over 1,500 athletes. After winning the Lightweight Eight event at the New York State competition, Caminiti and her boat booked their spot in Sarasota. She rows as the stroke of the boat, also known as the eight seat.

In the time trials, Caminiti’s boat placed 7th, missing the ‘A’ final by just three seconds. Her boat competed in the ‘B’ final where, they came in 2nd. This finish achieved an 8th place finish for the overall competition.

Caminiti has rowed with Row America Rye (RAR) since the fall of her freshman year, taking part in two-and-a-half hour practice sessions, six days per week.

“It was a really cool experience to go to nationals, and it was completely unlike anything I’ve ever done before,” Caminiti said. “I’m really happy with the turnout because we exceeded our own expectations.”