14 paddlers enjoyed the George Washington Canal at 2.91’ (2400 cfs) on a picture-perfect fall day – not a cloud in the sky and air temp in the high 60s. We were joined by new CCA member John Ritchie on his first GWC trip, welcome aboard, John! We had ten kayaks (Alf C, Barb B, Dean H, Dimitri D, Jim S, John S, Kathleen S, Mikey B, Natalie H and Wayne McD ) and four open canoes (Gary & Ginny Q, John R – PFD, and Rich C). The new strainer in Slalom Rapid continues to be a hazard to navigation; all safely passed it on the left. The level was relatively benign for Attainment Rapid and most, but not all, successfully executed the maneuver. We were escorted up the C&O Canal by two great blue herons; turtle count was nine.