George Washington University Athletics
GW Rowing Christens New Shell
10/2/2001 12:00:00 AM | Crew
Oct. 2, 2001
WASHINGTON, DC (Sept. 22, 2001) - In conjunction with 'GW Crew Day' and the Head of the Potomac, George Washington University christened a new shell for their men's crew on Saturday, September 22.
The shell, a Vespoli Millennium coxed four, was named the "Cappy Potter '69" in honor of the former GW oarsman of that name who passed away earlier this year of pancreatic cancer.
On hand to perform the ceremony was the Reverend Robert Foote '69, a methodist minister who rowed with Cappy in the late 1960s and Cappy's widow, Pat Potter, who graduated from GW in 1970.
"This is a very special day for us," said GW men's captain John Creedon. "To have our alums returning to the boathouse at this time is such an honor to today's oarsmen and women. It is especially wonderful that Mrs. Potter and so many of Cappy's crewmates were able to attend."
In addition to holding the Christening ceremony, GW also boated five alumni and three varsity women's crews on Saturday at the Head of the Potomac and later celebrations continued at the 'Alumni Party" held at a nearby restaurant.
"A week ago the Potomac River was closed for security reasons following the tragic events of September 11," said men's varsity coach Gene Kininmonth. "It is a testament to the enduring passion our alums have for this university's crew that so many would fly to Washington this weekend to make this occasion so special."
A moment of silence was held at 9:00 a.m. on the banks of the Potomac River prior to racing to honor all those lost in the tragic events of September 11 and their families.
