A Travel Series for Virginia State Parks
Episode 7: Are You Up for the CHALLENGE?
Tom Cervenak, Marketing Manager
Last week was a busy week that had me running from one end of the state to the other. After finishing up the 3 day Virginia RV Show in Hampton, I stopped in the office for one day (yes I actually have an office) then left for 3 days in the New River Valley. Once again I got to stay in a beautiful cabin at Claytor Lake State Park, while I met with sponsors for the New River Trail Challenge triathlon.
The New River Trail Challenge consists of 40 miles of biking, 12 miles of kayaking and 13.1 miles of running all with the beautiful New River as a backdrop for the grueling competition. Last year the number of racers more than doubled to 167 participants that ranged in age from 18-72 years old. There were quite a few individuals that took on the course, but there were many more 2 or 3 person teams competing.
Pre race photo at the New River Challenge last year
New River Challenge Finish Line 2012
Kayaking portion of the race 2012
After a 3 year hiatus, this race was brought back to life in 2011 thanks to important sponsors like Virginia State Parks is very appreciative of their support, along with all our sponsors for providing so many with a chance to participate in this race.
Last year I formed a team, The Virginia State Parks Power Rangers, and participated in my first race ever doing the kayak portion of the race. It was challenging to complete the 12 miles under race conditions. I’m not going to lie to you, around the 8-mile mark, on a clear day, I was praying for a lightning strike to take me out. When I did finish the first words out of my mouth were; “That’s it, I retire from racing!” Then a funny thing happened, within 15 minutes I started talking about how I could cut some minutes off my time and within an hour I pretty much committed to coming back to race in 2013.
Here I am preparing for the New River Challenge 2012
I hope you will consider challenging yourself and join me this year at the race. To find out more information and to get a registration form, New River Trail Challenge website. After a 165% jump in attendance last year and even more improvements, this race is destined for a sellout! So register early and save money and secure a spot in The Race!
(If you REALLY want a “challenge” think about back to back triathlons: September 14 at New River Trail Challenge!)
Enjoy this New River Challenge 2013 video by Johanna Petrosky
Until our paths cross at a Virginia State Park, hang onto your pants!