Two Foster City student-athletes helped power Norcal Crew to a historic breakthrough at the San Diego Crew Classic on March 29, one of the nation’s premier high school rowing regattas, featuring many of the country’s top-ranked teams.
Jasper Tam, a Foster City native and senior at Serra High School, together with his team finished first place in one of the most competitive events, winning the San Diego Rowing Club Cup. The victory marked the first time in program history of 26 years that Norcal has won this prestigious Youth Men’s 8+ event, defeating defending champion Marin in decisive fashion. As coxswain, Tam directed race strategy and steered the boat, playing a critical leadership role, working with Norcal Head Coach John Kaitz. Joining Tam in the Varsity 8+ boat are : Henry Pecore, Liam Bai, Alex Ochoa, Hank Allison, Peter Ward, Thor Dakin, Soren Phillips and Miles Sosnowski.
“For us the race was about filling the shoes of our seniors,” said Tam. “The class of 2025 left a really strong legacy and inspired us to continue to make history for Norcal. This year, based on previous results, we knew that winning was a completely real possibility and we really wanted to go for it." Kaitz described the moment as the crew surged ahead in the final stretch.“I was so proud of them for realizing what they are capable of,” Kaitz said. “They are pioneers.”
Find out what's happening in Foster Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Also representing Foster City was Nathan Chernoff, a senior at Sacred Heart Cathedral, who competed in the Men’s Youth B 8+ as the 5-seat rower for Norcal’s Second Varsity boat. His crew placed fifth in the Jean Jessop Hervey Cup, against a deep field of top California programs.
Norcal Crew is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the development of youth through the sport of rowing. https://www.instagram.com/norcvm/
