Tough Guy competition – in pictures

Participants get underway at last year's Tough Guy competition, held in South Perton, Staffordshire. On average, two-thirds of competitors do not finish the 12km race, which consists of cross-country running and an assault course. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Men carry wooden crosses, which gives them a head start. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Participants face a wall of mud. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Climbing along ropes in cold and muddy conditions. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

One competitor jumps through a fire - then has to wade through a muddy lake.
Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

And yet more mud.
Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

So near and yet so far – one participant near the finish line helps another who has cramp. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Meanwhile, back in the mud... Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Diving under logs in ice-cold water as a marshal no doubt shouts 'encouragement'. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

'Is this the finishing line I see before me?' Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures

Waiting for a warm shower after completing the course. Photograph: Espen Rasmussen/Panos Pictures