Embedded Files
On Tuesday, 27 Sep 2011, the second wave of this summer's Tuesday Groupers assaulted the James River and circumnavigated the infamous Jamestown Island. Vic came again but this time was able to cajole Margaret that the weather was just right for a paddle. It was better--they had a decent lunch. Bob H lugged a couple of boats in case some vagabonds wandered in and wanted to paddle with us. Bruce did the same since his Margaret's boat came sans Margaret J. Jeanette was a show for the first time in a long while. Jean, Phyllis, and Brian rounded out the group. The weather forecast was again a bother, but once again we prevailed and it was a perfect day for paddling.
The start point was new for us. We put in at Jamestown Beach which was renovated by James City County this past year. The James River was calm--at the start--and we started by passing under the bridgeway to the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry dock. Immediately on the other side, we were enamored by the Jamestown Settlement ships: Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery. And Godspeed II. The re-enactors were just as enamored with a bunch of kayakers out on a Tuesday where the weather channel presented a high threat forecast. After lollygagging around the wharf and ships, we realized we did not have to wait for wind like the tall ships did, so we set off. The James River remained calm all along the island side on the James. As we neared the far end of the island though, wind began to strike up and presented us with our first taste of real waves. Bruce pulled in for a stop as we began to round the island edge. Good thing as we had to spend a little more energy going into the wind and maintaining balance in rising waves. As we rounded the end of the island, the waves came at us sidewaves and made it more interesting. We passed by Black Point where we usually stop--it was high tide and there was no sandbank to embark on. We went past Black Point to a beach just the other side. Lunch was enjoyed, but the swim was cancelled as it was a bit cool. The winds stayed high and the waves stayed strong. But we knew the tide was coming out. Which was going to be stronger!
The wind at our back and the strong waves appeared to be stronger than the outgoing tide. Some kayakers tried surfing the waves and having a little bit of fun. Not sure if it increased the speed due to the effects of surfing the waves or just because of faster paddling to keep on top of the waves--but it was faster! The wind stayed up, and at our backs. After crossing out of the back bay into the James River and circumnavigating the island, Jean had a hankering to get smart on getting in and out of a kayak in the water. So SGT Bruce gave a demonstration. We aren't sure what he demonstrated, but he did get back in his boat. Bruce does not have nor intend to acquire a float to use on his paddle. After tipping a few more times, he wore out. Phyllis decided to show Jean the "proper" wet exit and entry. Of course she tipped right away--but she had good technique. Jean was impressed with both. She deferred on her own practice, however. Afterward we had a discussion on all the scum in the river after all the storms we have had and the many diseases being reported. We all stayed away from Bruce and Phyllis.
Off to get ice cream, we stopped at Brusters. After gorging, Jeanette coached us in a Yoga circle and we relaxed in Tuesday Group heaven. Bruce had a little trouble "centering" but he came through. Another fun day; good friends, good weather, good fun, and centered.
Brian
Phyllis' photos can be viewed at:
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse