The Middlesex first and second boats faced Brooks and St. Mark's on Lake Quinsigamond in the first race of the season. In the 1V race, Middlesex had a strong start, pulling away from St. Mark's alongside Brooks. Brooks and Middlesex battled down the course, but Brooks had the edge by a few seats leading into the final 500 meters. The Middlesex crew stayed composed and began their sprint early, making a move to pass Brooks and finish .5 seconds ahead, with St. Mark's crossing the line 12 seconds later. In the 2V race, Middlesex had another solid start, gaining distance on St. Mark's. While Brooks pulled decisively ahead, Middlesex faltered in the middle 500 meters, losing ground to St. Mark's, who threatened their lead. Ultimately, the Middlesex crew was able to fend off the challenge from St. Mark's to finish second behind Brooks. It was a great day of racing to open the spring season!