Tough Guy 2009: The tough get going

And they're off! All the contestants look remarkably clean and fresh as they begin the race. This will soon change ... Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

The tough guys and gals make their way across the rope challenge. Don't fall - or the photographer will get you Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

Then it's into the water for the Dragon Raft Race Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

There's always one who has to push the boundaries of taste and decency, isn't there? Still, at least he managed to find somewhere to put his inhaler Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

We much prefer the Baywatch look to the Borat one Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

The Cargo Net Challenge Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

Two hardy souls take the Titanic Scream Jump to the lake below Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

It's not called Tough Guy for nothing Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

Competitors swim through a churning sea of mud ... Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk

... to emerge triumphant on the other side! Photograph: Steve Woods (stf)/newsteam.co.uk