The William Smith rowing team started the season with a bang on Saturday. The Herons' varsity eight turned a strong opening race at the Head of the Genesee into the Liberty League Boat of the Week Award.
 
The Herons varsity eight was powered by Lizzy Whitney, Leah Wiebe, Eden Grim, Cheyenne Muldowney, Danielle Eaton, Olivia Helms, Alayna Wian, Ollie Sainsbury and Meghan Bartholomay. The 1V established control of the race right off the line, opening clear water behind them. The Herons cruised down the 5,000-meter course, stopping the clock at 8:19.795. The Herons stopped the clock 41 seconds ahead of the second-place boat.
 
William Smith will be back in action on Sunday, Oct. 18, when it heads to Boston for the Head of the Charles Regatta. The Herons will race in the collegiate four race at 1:59 p.m.