Busy Weekend in the Dan River Basin

There certainly was no excuse to be bored this past weekend! With so many wonderful events going on, it reminded me how fortunate we are to live in the Dan River basin.

On Saturday, the Dan River in Kibler Valley was the place to be for adrenaline junkies at the annual Kibler Valley Race. Our very own Andy Parker of DRBA participated in the race and filmed the excitement for others to enjoy. [video to be posted soon]

In Fieldale, athletes of all ages gathered at the Fieldale Trail for the 1st annual Smith River Mini Triathlon. Participants ran, paddled, and cycled their way to the finish line. Jim Frith, a DRBA member, helped his team win first place in the male team division. 27 racers participated in the event and all had a great time. The event was hosted by Henry County Parks & Recreation(HCPR), Martinsville Lesiure Services (MLS), YMCA, and Activate M-HC. It was held on the Fieldale Trail which is being extended by the Dan River Basin Association.

You didn't have to be an athlete though to enjoy the sweet music of Dean Smith and Montana. These two have an amazing sound and entertained the crowd while race scores were being calculated.

For those new to cycling, Ellen Jessee of the Henry County Bike Club and DRBA led a Beginner's Bike Ride at the Fieldale Trail. Eleven new cyclist joined her to learn about the rules of the road, changing gears, and other cycling tips. This free event is offered by the Henry County Bike Club on the fourth saturday of each month at 10 a.m.

Nature lovers enjoyed learning about slithery creatures at the Virginia Museum of Natural History's Reptile Day. Dr. Denny Casey, a DRBA member, is the caretaker of VMNH's newest exhibit- a seven year old corn snake named "Corny".

In the afternoon nearly thirty new paddlers met at Beaver Creek Reservoir and learned how to Kayak in classes taught by Eric Juday of Smith River Adventure Outfitters. Eric is a DRBA member and a new outfitter in our area offering canoe/kayak rentals, guided trips, and private lessons. His business will officially open this week. These kayaking classes are hosted by DRBA, HCPR, and MLS.

On Sunday, the staff of Smith River Adventure Outfitters took out a group of more experienced paddlers out for an intermediate kayak class. The twelve paddlers had a great time and learned some new skills while on the Smith River. During lunch, DRBA member and volunteer, Paul May took a break to snorkel. He explored some of the biodiveristy found in the Smith River including, crayfish, rock bass, chubs, minnows, and lung snails. (At right: Eric Juday & Paul May) [Video from our outing to be posted soon]

As you can see there are tons of activities that you can do in the Dan River basin, and an equally large number of great people to meet.

Q: What do all these people you've met have in common?

A: They are all members of the Dan River Basin Association!

By becoming a member of the Dan River Basin Association you are supporting our efforts to preserve and promote the natural and cultural resources of the Dan River basin. Please help us fufill our mission and become a member today! As a DRBA member you will recieve:

--Exclusive access to our current quarterly newsletter
--Annual reports
--An invitation to monthly outings, membership meetings, and other events
--A free logo decal for your boat or vehicle
--The opportunity to enjoy time on our rivers and trails with other outdoor enthusiasts
--The opportunity to play a role in protecting and promoting the Dan River Basin
--Special outings for members only

Join Today!