IF YOU have ever watched endurance athletes like Team GB gold medallists the Brownlee brothers and felt inspired to test your own fitness, now is your chance.

Oxford's own amateur-accessible duathlon is returning for its second year next month and sofa jockeys are being challenged to take part.

Organised by Oxford City Council, the 'Go Tri Duathlon' is designed to offer families a fun and friendly taste of what a full triathlon might be like.

Held at Horspath Sports Ground in Cowley on Saturday, October 28, the event is open to all, and there is plenty of time to start training.

A duathlon is an athletic event that consists of a running leg followed by a cycling leg and then another running leg in a format bearing some resemblance to triathlons.

Building on last year’s success, the duathlon will return to Horspath Sports Ground this year at 2pm.

Participants will have to overcome a 2.8km run, an 8km bike stage, followed by a final 2.8km run in order to breathe success at the finish line.

Vicki Galvin, Oxford City Council’s sport and physical activity manager, said: "We’re delighted that the Go Tri Duathlon will return to Oxford this year.

"It was a fantastic event last year and gives a great taste of what a triathlon is like.

"We hope that all ages and abilities come and have a go."

The city council event has been approved and supported by Triathlon England.

There is no age limit and entry costs £5. The signing up deadline is October 20 at 11:45pm.

On the event website, British Triathlon says: "This event is designed for those who have never done a triathlon before and is aimed to be a gentle introduction into the sport.

"With shorter distances, an off-road cycle and a non competitive ethos this is the perfect opportunity to turn your hand to a new challenge."

For more information and to register for the event, visit: britishtriathlon.org/events/GO-TRI-Oxford-City-Duathlon_8715.