Big Times on a Low Dan

Big Times on a Low Dan

a Carolina Paddler article

by Randy DiCello

∞ Last Saturday, CCC paddlers gathered on the Dan River for the eighth annual Fall Colors paddle. Even with all the activities going on, we still had fifteen people show up to paddle! We had sit-on-tops, canoes, rec boats, kayaks and a whitewater canoe. The water was low, but spirits were high.

The morning briefing kicked off with a remembrance of Bob Brueckner, who passed in February. Bob joined us last year for this trip and it was his last day paddling. We missed seeing him in his yellow Wavesport, surfing and grinning. He was with us in spirit and Alton paddled another Bob-boat, his old RPM.

Some colors were just beginning to show, the water was clear and cool and the temperature was around 75.  The sky was as blue as only a fall sky can be.  Leaves have begun to fall which allows the bluffs to stand out to be admired by all who meander by.  We certainly had a stellar day for time on the water!

A hornet’s attractive nest dangled from a tree. We didn’t see any residents, but no one seemed interested in carrying the décor treasure home in their cockpit.

We passed a large boulder on the left bank.  Someone observed Bob used to say it was a petrified log of an enormous ancient tree. Others agreed.

This event is billed as more of a social event, intended to appeal to new and novice paddlers.  The goal is to provide a safe opportunity to be out on a river and to build connections with other paddlers. If the water level is higher, closer to 1.7 ft., more spots are available for play and to allow ferrying and surfing skills to be shared. While teaching opportunities were lean, we did have several new-to-CCC folks with us to share the sun and water.

Braden Gardner and his daughter, Maddie, recently joined the CCC and this was their first CCC trip.  Both are new to kayaking so this trip was a great opportunity to get paddle time. Mentors suggested other rivers to try and where roll and skill classes are available in the Triad and Triangle. Maddie wants to learn to roll her Mamba and all she needs is someone to help her get started. She has the enthusiasm.

Craig is a friend of Joe Berry and has been paddling for a while but not so much with the CCC. He’s been to the concrete ditch a few times and was able to connect with some folks there.  He’s not a total newcomer.  This summer, on his first trip down French Broad 9, he won a race that was being held that day.

Darla is more comfortable on a paddle board but she’s giving kayaking a whirl.  This trip was her third time in a sit-in kayak and she navigated the rocks and ripples very well!

This trip wasn’t all about sun and fun. We did a little trash pick-up as well, making use of Joe’s handy trash barge.

To end the day, we enjoyed a riverside potluck picnic. Hot dogs and hamburgers, wonderful salads, and no-calorie desserts. Not a person left hungry and everyone took with them a smile and thoughts of what a beautiful day we had.

Appearing again next year, Fall Colors.