The 20th Beaverdam Park Canoe Jam was held on July 8 at the Gloucester park. Conditions were a bit breezy for this annual canoe and kayak competition, but the humidity was down and spirits were up.

More than 40 paddlers competed on scenic Beaverdam Reservoir in the Long Course (four miles), the Short Course (two miles) and the 4-Person Fun Race, according to race director Karla Havens. The 4-Person Fun Race has four paddlers in one canoe race around a single buoy and back to the starting line. Participation was up this year thanks to the Blazing Blue Herons, comprised of Girl Scouts from the Virginia Beach area.

All competitors and volunteers received T-shirts and complimentary items supplied by area merchants. Door prizes were also donated by local sponsors. 

Canoe Jam winners were:

Long course

C-1 Men (Cruiser Canoe): Vic Oliveira of Arlington (first place, 35:44); Jim Farrington of Hampton (second place, 35:55); Kirk Havens of Plainview (third place, 37:43).

C-1 Senior Me...