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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 20, 2023
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Virginia’s longest and oldest adventure triathlon returns for 24th year

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: David Burkwall Kayaking during New River Trail Challenge)

RICHMOND – Athletes from across the Mid-Atlantic region will convene at New River Trail State Park on September 16, 2023, for the New River Trail Challenge Triathlon, a three-stage, 65.2-mile race.

The Challenge, which is a part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series, begins with a 40-mile out-and-back bike leg, followed by a 12.1-mile downriver kayak paddle and ends with a half-marathon run along the river.

Registration is limited to 200 participants, and athletes of all fitness levels and age groups are invited to compete solo or in teams of two or three. Overall male and female winners will each receive a $250 Virginia State Parks gift certificate. The fastest team will receive a $300 gift certificate.

"The New River Trail Challenge is a race for everyone. We have competitors of all skill levels, ranging from world-class athletes to bucket listers from the age of 16 to 72,” said Virginia State Parks Promotions Manager Steve Boyd. “Thanks to our long-time sponsors, Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power, and the hardworking crew of New River Trail State Park, the Challenge is one of the premiere adventure races in the Mid-Atlantic region, attracting competitors from 12 states and the District of Columbia."

Registration is open through race day; however, participants can receive a discount if they register by June 30 or August 31.

To learn more about the New River Trail Challenge, go to dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/nrt-challenge.

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