The Radcliffe women's lightweight crew won a pair of tight races Saturday morning during the 2012 regular season finale on Bud Smith Memorial Race Course on Lake Carnegie.

The victory is Radcliffe's third in 15 years of Class of 1999 Cup competition, and it is the first on Lake Carnegie. Radcliffe won the varsity eight race in 7:00.3, while Princeton took second in 7:03.4.

The novice eight was an even closer race, as Radcliffe won in 7:29.6, while Princeton finished in 7:30.8.

"There are many positives to take away from the racing today," said head coach Paul Rassam. "There are also some clear areas that need work and we are eager to address them. Overall, things are moving in the right direction for both of our boats, and I am confident that we will show our best on the biggest stages at the end of the year.

"It's disappointing to lose close races, but, despite their inexperience, we have a very resilient group of athletes this year," Rassam added. "No one lets themselves get discouraged. The character is right for continued growth and end-of-year speed."

Princeton will now turn its attention to the 2012 EAWRC Championships, held May 13 at Cooper River in Cherry Hill, N.J.