The occasion was a June 1 luncheon at the URI president’s home in honor of the women’s crew team and the 20 rowers who would be competing in the Henley Women’s Regatta, the first time in the 25 years of the event that URI has participated.

URI rowing team to compete overseas: wpri.com

“Our rowers looked ever so proper,” blogged junior Hannah Johnson in her best British English. “The entire team was decked out in our London attire generously donated by Jones New York: Pewter colored skirts, white blouses, and navy blazers emblazoned with a gold anchor.”

Also on the docket for the day was the naming of racing shells. The boats now bear the names of six women who have been long-time supporters of women’s athletics at URI: Wilma Briggs; Mary “Murph” Carmody ’82; Mary “Polly” Eddy, Hon. ’88; Eleanor “Ellie” Lemaire; Blanche Murray 41; and Carolyn “Carrie” Nally, Hon. ’90. Cheers erupted as each honoree splashed champagne on the bow of her namesake boat.

Update: Because of stormy weather, The Henley Women’s Regatta was unusually challenging, with some races being scratched in favor of time trials.