Stunning images from the ÖTILLÖ Isles of Scilly 2016

With around 30km of trail running and over 7.5km of swimming, the ÖTILLÖ Isles of Scilly 2016 Swimrun provided both an awesome physical challenge set against a similarly breathtaking backdrop. Even for the winners, British pairing Richard Stannard and Andrew Fargus, it was an effort of over five hours. Take a look at the images below for a combination of beauty and inspiration.

You can also read the race report HERE - and find out more from a first hand experience on our sister site, Run247.com, HERE.

(All images are copyright and courtesy of Nadja Odenhage and Matti Rapila / ÖTILLÖ Isles of Scilly 16)

The start in Hugh Town on St. Mary.

Easy to feel fresh now - five (plus) hours still to run. And swim.

Athletes run in their wetsuits and have to transport all of their own equipment.

You also swim in your shoes...

Racing in pairs, you have to remain within 10 metres of your partner at all times.

Stunning.

Stunned?!

Swimrun truly is a team effort.

They did promise amazing scenery

ÖTILLÖ translates as 'island to island'...

Time for a refuel.

Richard Stannard and Andrew Fargus looking good in first place approaching another swim exit.

A few rocks is just part of the deal - no blue carpet in this form of multisport.

The course truly uses its environment to create images like this one.

Happy for a little descent here.

There was pain, blisters... but lots of smiles too.

Congratulations to the debut winners, Richard Stannard and Andrew Fargus.