row2k concludes our 2025 spring collegiate racing interview series today with an interview with Rhode Island coxswain Chris Grivers. We chat with him on club coxing, racing HOCR, and more.

row2k - How did you get your start in rowing?

Chris Grivers - I began rowing my freshman year of college at URI as a coxswain from the very beginning. I immediately realized that it was something that engaged my mind and brought me a real sense of accomplishment, so I stuck with it, and I even coxed a varsity boat (WV4+) during my second semester!

row2k - How did you decide to attend Rhode Island?

Chris Grivers - I chose to attend the University of Rhode Island because of its well respected engineering program, as well it being my in-state university. I have been very happy with my decision and would not choose to go anywhere else!

row2k - What is your role as coxswain within the URI squad?

Chris Grivers - The URI Crew Club is a co-ed squad that has a strong team of both men and women rowers. Since my freshman year, I have mainly coxed on the women’s side of the program and I have seen the program rise up from a small group of less than 10 rowers sending only a varsity four to ACRA my freshman year, to the WV4 placing 4th my sophomore year. Last year we moved up to the varsity 8 placing 8th and this upcoming season we are training for a medal position in the eight at ACRA. This year the women’s side of the program has over 24 rowers! I’m grateful to work with such dedicated and strong women.

row2k - What are you looking forward to the most from this spring season?

Grivers with rocket

Chris Grivers - This spring season I am looking forward to ACRA club rowing championship in Tennessee. For the past three years my crew has been right on the edge of a podium position and we are working hard to make this year our year. The racing in Tennessee is my favorite part of spring because the weather is nice, the racing is fast, and the opportunity is within arms reach!

row2k - What has been your most memorable race and why?

Chris Grivers - My most memorable race was Head Of The Charles in 2023 where I coxed the women’s Varsity four. URI had not sent a boat to the Charles in a few years so we were seeded in the back of the lineup, but we knew we were quick. Right off the of the start we began passing boat after boat. In total we had passed nearly 15 boats by the time we reached the finish line and we placed 5th in the end! I feel that it was my best performance ever as a coxswain and it really tested my skills.

row2k - What are you studying at the Rhode Island and do you have any other plans for after graduation?

Chris Grivers - I am studying Mechanical Engineering at URI. Right now I am working on my capstone design project where my team and I are designing and building a high power model rocket. Our predicted altitude that will be reached is 5280 feet. It has been very challenging to work within our budget and meet all the design criteria, but hopefully our flight in April will be a success! After I graduate I will be staying at URI for one more year to complete a masters degree in mechanical engineering.