The EARC Men's Sprints, Women's Sprints, and National Invitational Rowing Championships have been cancelled for 2021, Katie Boldvich, Executive Director of the Intercollegiate Rowing Association, announced today.
The Women's Eastern Sprints (WSPRINTS), National Invitational Rowing Championships (NIRC), and Men's Eastern Sprints (EARC) Championships scheduled for May 2, May 9, and May 16, 2021 respectively, on Lake Quinsigamond, Worcester, MA have been canceled.
Intercollegiate Rowing Association Commissioner Gary Caldwell, cited ongoing travel restrictions, with more than 50% of men's Sprints programs and an almost equal number of women's Sprints programs opting out of the spring season or severely limiting competitive opportunities.
Additionally the NIRC is faced with more than 40% of its membership encumbered by travel restrictions or having already canceled all spring competition.
"The effects of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic continue to be felt. While it's encouraging that a significant number of schools are making plans for limited dual racing opportunities in the Northeast, we are a long way from normalcy. Our ability to conduct spring championships in Worcester is contingent on a robust roster of schools, and we just aren't there right now."
Plans are for a return to a full slate of racing at all three championships in 2022.
row2k reported on the ccurrent status of the IRA in IRA 2021 On a Razor's Edge; Status and Considerations as of February 2021 last month; there is still some optimism that the IRA will occur, and we will report as soon as more information becomes available.