THREE members of the Port Stephens’ Tomaree Trotters ran the annual Wakashio Marathon in Tateyama, Japan, on 25 January.
Natasha Rainier and Jaci Richards completed the full marathon, while Rebecca Smith ran the 10km after an injury in training.
“The course was beautiful with ocean views, forest roads and Mt Fuji on the horizon,” said Jaci Richards.
Tateyama has been a Port Stephens sister city since 2009 with regular reciprocal exchanges arranged through the Port Stephens Sister Cities Committee.
Japanese families hosted the three runners in their homes during their five-day visit, with cultural activities including participating in a tea ceremony.
“We found the Japanese people so kind and supportive. What a rewarding experience,” Jaci added.
The invitation to run came from Shoichi Mori, Mayor of the City of Tateyama, and Tsutomu Takiguchi, chairman of the Tateyama International Exchange Society.
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