Jason Beakes

 
DOB: 10-29-1972

State/Hometown: Bethesda, MD

Favorite place to paddle/favorite drop: Great Falls of the Potomac River, Green River Narrows

About Me:  Besides being a paddler I'm the proud father of two great kids, Emma and Noah, ages 7 and 5, respectively. I also work for Mid Atlantic Infrared, a DC area consulting firm that provides electrical and mechanical testing as well as cost and energy saving solutions to a large portfolio of local clients. I am currently a lead instructor for Team River Runner, a DC based non profit that introduces Veterans of the Iraq and Afghan wars to various paddle sports in order to promote health, healing, and new challenges in their lives. My goals are to create synergy between these various endeavors, to lead a full and inspired life, and most importantly to make a difference in the lives of others.

Accomplishments: 8 years on the US Slalom Team, over 30 podium finishes in extreme kayaking competitions (including 6 Great Falls extreme race wins), ACA certified instructor for whitewater and adaptive paddling,  instructor for Team River Runner – a Washington D.C. based organization that teaches kayaking to Veterans who have been wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan

I've paddled in 14 countries including extreme racing in Brazil, creeking and surf kayaking in Australia, freestyle competition in Japan, slalom racing all over Europe and road tripping all over the US, Canada and Central America.

Creekboat: Nomad 8.5 and Green Boat

Playboat: Agent 6.2

Favorite Move: Kick Flip

Favorite Music: Variety of styles

Must-Have Accessory: Kokatat Meridian Drysuit

Other Hobbies/Activities: Trail Running, Yoga, Salsa Dancing,reading
 
Why you love kayaking: I don't think I would have survived my teenage years without kayaking. Interacting with rivers, which are such powerful forces of nature enabled me to put the petty challenges that can seem so daunting to a teenager in their proper place, giving me the confidence to enjoy and appreciate what life has to offer.  The whitewater paddling community is rare and special thing as well. The devotion we give to one and other is hard to find in most walks of life.

Media
Team River Runner video