THE BASICS
The 2025 Drake rowing season will kick off with the annual Head of Des Moines race on Saturday, September 27. The Bulldogs will open their fall campaign on home water, racing along a 2.5-mile course in Prospect Park adjacent to the Bright-Beckwith Boathouse.
This first regatta of the year offers Drake the chance to compete in front of a home crowd while giving novice rowers valuable race experience early in the season.
COACH CHARLIE DISILVESTRO ON THE SEASON'S OUTLOOK
"This is always an exciting time of year because the Head of the Des Moines is our first race. It's a great opportunity for our novices to get that first race under their belt, and we have a much larger novice group this season than we've had in recent years, which is exciting to see.
"It's also great to see our varsity athletes back on the water. We're doing some sculling events with them this year, which is a little different, but they've looked really strong in practice. Since this race is literally right across the street from our boathouse, friends, family, and classmates can come out and watch without having to travel, which makes the whole day even more special."
COACH DISILVESTRO ON THE HEAD OF THE DES MOINES
"Saturday's race is a head race, which means it's a timed 2.5-mile course. Boats will launch every 15 seconds, so you're racing the clock — you might not see the crews you beat or who beat you. It's a different format from the spring season and a great way to start the year."
COMPETING TEAMS
Drake will face strong competition from programs including:
- Minneapolis Rowing Club
- St. Cloud State University Crew
- Macalester College Crew
- Michigan Tech Rowing Club
- University of St. Thomas Crew Club
SCHEDULE
Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025
- 9:10 a.m. – Women's Club 2x (WB2X)
- 10:30 a.m. – Women's Collegiate 8+ (WC8+)
- 11:35 a.m. – Women's Collegiate 4+ (WC4+)
