Thirty-five rowers, coming from current Mathews and Gloucester crews, as well as alumni of MHS, GHS and Mobjack Rowing, gathered at Williams Wharf for the 18th annual Mobjack Rowing Christmas Eve Row.

The water was like glass with calm wind and slightly overcast but warm conditions. As usual for rowing alumni gatherings, this year’s group included four valedictorians/salutatorians, 14 who were or are currently college/scholarship rowers, an elite/national team level rower. Over one-third of this group has earned national and international medals from many of the world’s most prestigious rowing competitions.

Scholarship totals earned since 1994 by Mathews, Mobjack and Gloucester rowers now exceed $3.2 million, according to coach Tim Ulsaker. "This is one of my favorite events of the year as it always heartwarming to catch up and see where these young people have gone," Ulsaker said of the Christmas Eve Row. "Today’s group has eight still rowing ...