AUSTIN — A photograph capturing a family leaping with joy surged past seventeen other finalists to clinch the grand prize in the Texas State Parks photo contest.
The year-long competition, a highlight of Texas Parks and Wildlife’s (TPWD) centennial celebrations honoring 100 years of Texas State Parks, drew over 6,000 submissions. A panel of judges selected four seasonal winners and runners-up, subsequently entering them into a public vote to determine the ultimate winner.
Sam Holm, hailing from North Texas, expressed elation at his family's winning snapshot, which encapsulates a burgeoning family tradition.
"Our initial jump photo was taken at Enchanted Rock," Holm recalled. "We decided to recreate it at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and we nailed it in one attempt."
Holm, accompanied by his wife and two daughters, avidly champions state parks and feels incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of natural spaces to relish.
Their victory grants them exclusive benefits: a Texas State Parks Pass, a $500 gift card from H-E-B donated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, and a VIP curated experience at a Texas state park.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants in the photo contest," remarked Whitney Bishop, TPWD social media coordinator. "Texas state parks witness thousands of special moments daily, and we are honored to be a part of that."
The excitement doesn't fade when the clock strikes midnight. Texas state parks offer fresh photo opportunities with their New Year's First Day Hikes tradition. Visitors can select from a variety of events, including night hikes, nature walks, and polar plunges, to welcome 2024. For further details about First Day Hikes and a comprehensive list of events, visit the TPWD website.
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