May 2, 2009- Competing in the Opening Day Regatta’s Cascade Erickson Memorial Cup, the Bruins faced Washington and the University of British Columbia.

The Huskies took control of the race early and continued to open their lead throughout the race securing the Cascade Cup. The battle was between UBC and UCLA. “We got a two seat lead off the start, said coxswain Lila Miller, but UBC pulled even by the 500.”

The two crews would exchange the lead several times with neither getting more that a two seat advantage. As the crews passed under the Montlake Bridge in the infamous “cut” British Columbia held a one seat advantage. “I knew if we had a good sprint we would take them, stated stroke seat Martin Reschke, and when Lila called it up I could feel the boat jump!”

The Bruins surged past UBC in the last 20 strokes to claim second by three seats. “This was a great race for us at an excellent event. I am glad our guys got to experience Opening Day and have their best race of the year,” said coach Mokha.

“Let’s give a big hand to UCLA, announced long time Husky coach Bob Ernst to the Conibear Shellhouse awards ceremony crowd. It’s great to see the Bruins here. It has been a long time since we have hosted them and are glad they made the trip.”

The Bruins will now prepare for the Pac-10 Championships at Lake Natoma in Sacramento on May 17.