Washington had to row on a reversed course Saturday, but still had no problems sweeping WWU on the Montlake Cut
In his first season at Washington, Rick Gherst primarily coached the four-oared boats, leading the Varsity 4+ to an undefeated regular season. Postseason success was just as sweet, as the Huskies captured a gold medal at the 2011 Pac-10 Championships, and then a national title in both the Varsity 4+ and Open 4+ at the IRA Championships in June.
Over the summer, Gherst has been assisting Husky oarsmen with their preparations for Club Nationals in Indianapolis.
Gherst joined the Husky program after four seasons at Dartmouth College, where he was the Big Green's freshmen coach. Previously at Dartmouth, Gherst coached as a varsity assistant.
Gherst is a 1997 graduate of the University of Vermont with a degree in political science. Gherst coxed on his alma mater's rowing team, and later with the Pennsylvania Athletic Club. He then coached the Catamounts as the women's novice from 1997-98 before becoming the head coach from 1998-2000.
Gherst left Burlington to become the head coach at Rhode Island from 2000-06. In 2004, Gherst led Rhode Island to the best season in school history, medaling at the New England Championships, ECAC Invitational and taking the team to its first Henley Royal Regatta.
Graduate of Overlake High School in Redmond, Wash. Enjoys running and is training to compete in an ultra marathon. Also has his private pilot's license.
