Blenheim Palace Triathlon offers back-to-back challenge

A major part of the attraction of the event is its stunning scenery, but the Blenheim Palace Triathlon also offers a beginner-friendly route into triathlons and is considered the go-to triathlon for people starting out in the sport.

There are two different levels of triathlon (400m swim, 13.3km bike, and 2.9k run, or 750m swim, 19.8km bike, and 5.4k run) and the option of taking part alongside friends in a relay event.

There is even a Weekend Warrior option where people can complete as many back-to-back triathlons as they can over the duration of the weekend.

At last year’s event, almost one in every five participants were from Oxfordshire, and organisers LimeLight Sports Club are confident the number will continue to grow.

James Hogben, managing director of LimeLight Sports Club, said: “Completing a triathlon in the grounds of Blenheim Palace is completely unique.

“Many of our participants come from across the UK to take part but it’s great to see more and more local people signing up as well.”

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Last year’s triathlon was rocked by the tragic death of a participant during the swimming section.

An inquest was told that 56-year-old Andrew Phillips drowned in a lake after his feet became entangled in a rope attached to a buoy.

LimeLight Sports Club said: “We remain deeply saddened by the death of Mr Phillips.

“There is nothing we take more seriously than the wellbeing of our event participants, spectators, staff and volunteers, as everyone will continue to see at this year’s Blenheim Palace Triathlon.

“We fully supported the recent coroner’s inquest, which concluded that Mr Phillips’ passing was a tragic accident.

“The inquest found that all areas surrounding the organisation of the event, including risk assessments and medical support, were compliant and appropriate.

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“Despite everyone’s best efforts, nothing more could have been done to save the life of Mr Phillips. 

“Our thoughts remain with his family at this difficult time.”

Day tickets are available from the palace’s website for those wanting to cheer on the competitors.

For more information, including how to sign up for this year’s Oxford Half Marathon which takes place on October 15, visit: