The Captain Thurmond’s Challenge staged in the New River Gorge for the last nine years, is slated for Saturday, August 1st this year. The Challenge has evolved from one event, a triathlon, to a multi-event festival. In addition to a very unique triathlon featuring biking, running, and kayaking in the heart of the New River Gorge, there is again this year a Kid’s Challenge that allows opportunity for the entire family to participate in these action events.

Captain Thurmond’s Challenge Triathlon is 30 miles of the most extreme whitewater, mountain biking and running in the state and the East Coast. Set in the spectacular New River Gorge, the triathlon includes an 11 mile bike leg that begins with a Lemans start from the historic Downtown Fayetteville and runs to Cunard along the ridge lines of the New River George. The 8 mile watercraft leg proceeds from Cunard to Fayette Station through Class III and IV rapids. The 8 mile run at the end tests the athletes endurance going up and out of the gorge finishing back at the Fayette County Courthouse. The triathlon can be done either by a team or solo by one individual. LEARN MORE >>