From hot tub hen party motivations to outrunning old age, this year's Blenheim Palace Triathlon has drawn participants with unique signing-up reasons.
The iconic event sees thousands competing each year, many doing so to raise money for charity or in honour of loved ones.
But this year, fascinating individual reasons have emerged.
Among the participants in the event, taking place on the first weekend of June, is 59-year-old Alex, from Swindon, who said: "My son is doing it and I want to beat him," demonstrating the friendly rivalry that the event inspires.
Adding to the competitive spirit, Christopher, from London, is using sibling rivalry as motivation, stating: "Beating my brother’s time."
Midlife crisis is driving Graeme and Stuart from Scotland to join the triathlon.
Additionally, 64-year-old John from Bristol is "Swimming, cycling and running away from old age as fast as I can".
Drunken decisions have also influenced sign-ups: Ian from Banbury accepted a challenge at his 48th birthday party after a few bottles of wine.
Similarly, Rachael and Patricia from Liverpool decided in a hot tub at a hen party: "Myself and the other members of the ‘Hottub Hotties’ were in a hot tub one evening and we realised we were capable of great things - so we signed up."
More information about the Blenheim Palace Triathlon can be found at blenheimtriathlon.com.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here