The No. 2 California men's rowing team had a stellar start at the 2026 IRA National Championship, winning all varsity eight heats to advance to the AB semifinals. The varsity four recorded the fastest time-trial of the day and secured a spot in the Grand Final. Each boat showcased dominant performances, with the varsity eight consistently holding leads throughout their races.

By the Numbers
  • Varsity eight won heats with final times: 5:41.650, 5:45.150, and 5:52.000.
  • Varsity four posted a time-trial of 6:05.970, over six seconds faster than the next crew.
Yes, But

While the Bears excelled, competitors like Syracuse and Princeton remain top contenders, which could pose challenges in the upcoming semifinals and finals.

State of Play
  • All three varsity eights are set for the AB semifinals starting Saturday morning.
  • The varsity four's strong performance positions them favorably for the Grand Final showdown.
What's Next

The Bears will compete in the semifinals at 8:56 a.m. PT on Saturday, aiming for strong finishes to secure spots in the finals for all divisions.

Bottom Line

Cal's impressive first day sets the stage for potential championship victories, highlighting their resilience and dominant performance in the face of tough competition.