British triathlon at UNESCO World Heritage site announces two new events

A British triathlon which takes place at a UNESCO World Heritage site has unveiled two exciting new events.

The Blenheim Palace Triathlon takes place on the grounds surrounding the stunning eponymous country house in Oxfordshire, and has now announced it will host two duathlons alongside their popular annual triathlon races.

That brings the total number of races at the 7-8 June 2025 event to six, with the duathlon duo joining the Super Sprint, Sprint, Sprint Relay and Weekend Warrior triathlon challenges.

Removing the swimming barrier

Both a half-distance duathlon (5km run, 22km bike, 5km run) and full distance duathlon (10km run, 44km bike, 5km run) will be on offer at the Blenheim Palace Triathlon.

With open water swimming often proving a barrier to entry to those interested in triathlon, organisers hope that the duathlon offering can help those wary of getting in the water with a first step into the multi-discipline race scene.

“While we always see such a variety of experience levels at Blenheim each year, with a large number of beginners, we know that open water swimming can be a barrier,” Race Director Andy Taylor said.

“This is why we wanted to provide the option for 2025 to run, bike, run and open up this spectacular event to even more people.

“The whole weekend is designed for people of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, and it is seen as a great way for runners and cyclists to begin building their way up to taking part in a triathlon.

“We’re very excited about hosting the Duathlon at Blenheim Palace Triathlon this year, and hope to grow the event further each year.”

How to get past swimming concerns

Ask most beginner and age group triathletes and they will tell you the swim is the most frustrating or even scary triathlon discipline. Our swim training section for triathlon aims to help you overcome those fears and frustrations with expert triathlon swimming training advice – from open water venues to technique advice.