Chase Rowing Team
to Name Three Racing Shells after Petit Family
Posted 05/10/2012
10:53AM
“We are fortunate
to have shared in the lives of Michaela, Hayley and Jennifer,” says Chase’s
Headmaster John Fixx. “We are deeply moved to be able to honor the girls through
the generosity of their father and to remember them with this
celebration.”
Chase’s crew team
began in 2008, racing its first regatta in 2009 and has grown in strength and
ability since. Last year, the girls’ team won the Lower Boat Regatta hosted by
Rumsey Hall. Three of Michaela’s classmates are currently on the team, Alicia
Payne, Robert Reinhardt, and Victoria Gilbert. “Being a part of this team and
the shell christening really means a lot to me,” says Gilbert. “I’m so fortunate
to have known such a wonderful girl, and I still miss her every day.” Following
the ceremony, Michaela’s teammates will take to the water for the first race in
their newly christened boat, the Michaela Rose Petit. Dr. Petit, who will attend
the boat blessing, will also be on the shoreline to see his family’s names grace
the lake. Chase will race
“Bill’s
familiarity with rowing, because of Hayley’s passion for the sport, made it easy
for him to understand what we are trying to accomplish,” says Lincoln Turner,
head coach of the Rowing team. “Bill’s contribution has already made a
tremendous difference for our program and enhanced everyone’s experience
immensely. Each member of the team would tell you that the best part of Dr.
Petit’s gift is that we get to remember Michaela, Hayley and Jennifer every time
we row.”
The christening
on May 12 at one o'clock will be a day of remembrance, celebration and
gratitude.