EUGENE, Ore. — A tough bout of weather and lengthy delays couldn't dampen the Logger spirit on Saturday as the University of Puget Sound men's rowing team delivered a solid pair of performances at the 2025 Collegiate Covered Bridge Regatta.

Racing in unseasonably challenging conditions, Puget Sound's men's double opened the day's effort in the late morning. After a clean start, the Loggers battled tightly with UC Berkeley's lightweight crew through the heart of the race.  With less than 500 meters to go, the Loggers pair shifted gears and unleashed a powerful sprint, surging through the line in 8:35.0—good for second place behind only Cal Poly Humboldt, who took the win in 8:29.2. The Loggers finished 5.8 seconds behind the leaders but left clear water ahead of the third-place Bears.

It was a promising sign of depth and composure from a relatively young shell that is still finding its rhythm.

Later in the afternoon, the novice four-plus crew added another strong showing to the team's résumé. The Loggers found themselves locked in a stern-to-stern duel with UC Davis for much of the 2000-meter course - but were able to persevere to beat the Mustangs by 2.6 seconds

It was their best race of the season to date. "Everything came together in the sprint," said Coach Jessica Manginelli, noting the boat's focus and acceleration in the closing strokes. "They found their speed when it mattered most."

Saturday's racing not only brought podium finishes but also signaled a turning point in the development of both lineups. With the season heading into its crucial stretch, Puget Sound's men's crews appear poised to make noise when it counts.