A new statewide race series — The Virginia State Parks Adventure Series presented by Appalachian Power — offers competitors a unique way to compete in triathlons in six state parks.

Races will be held at James River State Park on April 22, Smith Mountain Lake on May 6, Hungry Mother on May 13, Claytor Lake State Park on Sept. 9, New River Trail State Park on Sept. 16 and Pocahontas State Park on Oct. 14.

Registration for an individual race automatically enters competitors into the series.

Winners are determined by mileage, not time or finishing place. The races cover a total of 156.7 miles of biking, running, and either canoe, kayak or swim stages.

Prizes will be awarded to the male and female Adventure Series champions who cover the greatest mileage and compete in at least two races. Prizes include an REI half-dome tent including footprint ($240 value), $100, a JetBoil Zip cooking system and a CamelBak Rogue hydration pack.

Prizes will be awarded to individuals or teams who compete in at least two races and cover the most miles in each stage: bike, run and water (canoe, kayak or swim leg). Prizes include a $100 Virginia State Parks gift certificate, an ENO SingleNest hammock and a Petzyl AKTIC 300-lumen headlamp.

Everyone who enters at least three Adventure Series races (solo or team) will receive a Virginia State Parks annual pass ($66 value) and be entered into a drawing for a $250 Virginia State Parks gift certificate for cabins and camping.

“As the vacation and recreation destination of more than 10 million visitors last year, at Virginia State Parks we strive to provide guests with unique and innovative ways to enjoy the outdoors,” said Virginia State Parks Director Craig Seaver. “We’re proud of the new Adventure Series and look forward to many successful races in the years to come. We appreciate our partners, Appalachian Power and REI, who are helping us make our inaugural season a success.”