FAIRFAX, Va. – The George Mason University rowing program will welcome alumnae back to Fairfax in conjunction with the first annual Mason Invite on April 23.
 
The race, held at Sandy Run Regional Park, will welcome schools from the Big 12, Atlantic 10 and CAA to the DMV in a unique conference challenge format.
 
Beginning at 9 a.m., each conference will host an opening round race. The top finisher from each will advance to the final race, pitting the top Big 12, Atlantic 10 and CAA teams against each other in an exciting end to the day.
 
As part of the event, Mason will host an alumnae gathering throughout the day (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and encourages former Patriot rowers to attend, cheer and connect with fellow letter winners.
 
"Our program is growing and I want our support to grow as well," said Lydia (Wheeler) Harshbarger ('06), who is spearheading the event. "I rowed at Mason and it was a fantastic experience. [Coach] Ted [Nagorsen] is doing an outstanding job. He considers Mason rowing a family and that's so important. I'd love for our alumni to continue to build camaraderie and to create a legacy to leave behind while helping and mentoring the program's current student-athletes."
 
If alumni are unable to attend, Harshbarger is hoping individuals will send video messages, photos and more to be displayed in the alumni tent during the Mason Invite.
 
For more information on the alumnae event or how to get involved in the Mason rowing alumnae network, contact Harshbarger at lydia.harshbarger@googlemail.com.