Faster pace expected for James River Batteau Festival

LYNCHBURG -- Whatever other factors combine to make this year's batteau trip down the James River unique, organizers and participants agree on one thing -- this year's should be a fast ride.

Given heavy recent rains, the water levels of the James have risen enough to excite and, in some cases, concern those involved.

The James River Batteau Festival started yesterday with 19 batteaux, according to Chairman Buddy High.

The vessels left their docking point near Percival's Island as a few hundred onlookers endured the humidity to witness the kickoff for the eight-day trip.

Ellen Blankenship, nine-time participant and captain of the Spirit of the James, said she's been on the river in high, low and medium conditions.

"In previous years where it's been fast, the biggest problem is stopping when you get to where you want to be," she said.

The trip runs to Maidens Landing in Goochland County near Richmond, and each stop will have to be made carefully, Blankenship said.

"There are no second chances in high water," she said, noting that some crews choose to pull in beneath overhanging brush to slow their approach. Others use double anchors.

"You just do whatever is necessary at the moment," she said.

High said he anticipates, at times, a cut in 50 percent of the traveling time from one point to the next.

Blankenship said the speed should be a welcome relief from last year, when water levels were low enough to make the trip tedious.

Dave Thompson is a staff writer for The News & Advance in Lynchburg.