Coach Lucas Ridinger is brimming with excitement about the Vashon Island Junior Crew (VIJC).

“Their three years of hard work is paying off,” he said. “They are being recognized and respected by the rowing community.”

The reason for his excitement is that the Junior Men’s 8+ has — by virtue of being the highest-place American finisher in their race at Mill Bay, B.C. — for the first time qualified to receive an invitation to “Opening Day” festivities sponsored by the University of Washington, Windermere Real Estate and the Seattle Yacht Club on Saturday, May 2.

The races are in conjunction with the Opening Day of Boating Season and are followed by the Opening Day Boat Parade.

Nearly 500 rowers compete in this prestigious event, which culminates with the women’s and men’s Windermere Cup races.

“It is an honor and privilege to be invited to this event,” Ridinger said. “This is a huge accomplishment for our club. Our club will only continue to get stronger with the support of Vashon Park District and our community.”