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Media Center - Press Release

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 26, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Adventure Races return to Shenandoah River State Park in September

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Shenandoah River State Park Adventure Races)

BENTONVILLE, Va. – Raymond R. “Andy” Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park is thrilled to announce the return of the Shenandoah River Adventure Race and Shenandoah River Aquablaze, set to take place this September. These events are expected to draw participants from across the region for a weekend of thrilling competition and outdoor excitement. 

The Shenandoah River Adventure Race, scheduled for Sept. 6, offers 12-hour and 6-hour options, which include kayaking, mountain biking and trail running sections. Participants can compete solo or as a team of two, three or four.

Then, on Sept. 7, the park will host the Shenandoah River Aquablaze. Aquablazing is when Appalachian Trail thru-hikers kayak or canoe a portion of the trail. Now, explorers have the chance to experience an Aquablaze along the Shenandoah River with a backdrop of Skyline Drive.  

The Shenandoah River Aquablaze has 1/2 marathon and full marathon course options with kayaking and trail running. Participants can compete solo or as a team of two.

“We’re excited to welcome back these competitions to Shenandoah River State Park,” said Park Manager Dustin Haymaker. "These races provide a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the park’s stunning natural beauty while embracing the thrill of outdoor adventure and personal challenge."

The Shenandoah River Adventure Race and Shenandoah River Aquablaze are organized by Rev3Endurance and part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series, presented by Dominion Energy. To learn more, please go to virginiastateparks.gov/adventure-series. 

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit virginiastateparks.gov. 

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