MALDEN, Mass. -- The Wellesley College crew team had a busy day of racing this morning, competing against crews from Bates, Wesleyan and Tufts on the Malden River.

Wellesley's varsity eight went 1-1 on the morning, defeating Tufts, but falling to #2 Bates. Against Tufts, Wellesley finished in 6:58.5, topping the Jumbos' time of 7:08.3. Against Bates, the Bobcats finished in 6:51.5, while the Blue came in at 7:03.9.

In second varsity action, Wellesley's entries mirrored the 1V finishes, topping Tufts, but falling to national power, Bates. Against Tufts, the Blue (7:20.1) outdistanced the Jumbos (7:52.2) by over 30 seconds. Against Bates, the Bobcats topped the Blue, 7:07.2 to 7:21.5.

Wellesley came out on top in the other two races for the Blue this morning. In the novice eight competition, Wellesley scored an eight-second victory over Tufts, coming in at 7:22.7 to Tufts' 7:30.0. In the varsity four race, the Blue topped Tufts, 8:13.0 to 8:31.0.

The Blue are back in action next weekend at the 2012 NEWMAC Championships, hosted by Clark at Lake Quinsigamond. Wellesley will look to defend its 2011 title.