UT rowing charged to 2010-11 finish line

The conclusion of the 2010-11 season for the University of Tennessee rowing team was a successful one, as the Lady Vols posted a runner-up finish at the 2011 Conference USA Championships.

In total, the squad posted runner-up finishes in the varsity eight, second varsity eight and varsity four grand finals. The "A" boat claimed the gold medal in the Open 4+, while Tennessee's "B" shell took home the bronze medal in the same race.

Four rowers for the Lady Vols earned conference honors, including Ashley Fichthorn, Hilary Epes and Erika Lauderdale (All-Conference-USA), while Erika Johnson was selected to the league's All-Academic team.

The Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association also honored seven Lady Vols, including Lauderdale, who took home CRCA First Team All-South Region accolades, and was also a key member of UT's V8+ shell during the season.

Five other members of the team claimed CRCA Scholar Athlete Awards, including: Paige Austin, Fichthorn, Johnson, Andrea Keesecker and Lindy Kirk.

As always, fans are reminded to follow the Lady Vols rowing team on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ladyvol_rowing.