A local man has represented Northern Beaches Council in the gruelling 25th Senshu International Marathon in Japan last month.

John Nelson, 39-year-old from Manly, was a guest of the Tadaoka Town Government near Osaka as a representative for Northern Beaches Council.

The annual marathon is a major sporting event in Japan with over 5,000 participants from across the country and overseas taking part.

The marathon takes place in the southern part of Osaka Prefecture, passing through nine cities and four towns.

Mr Nelson was selected from a large group of applicants to participate in the 42km race on 18 February. One of the criteria to apply was having completed at least one marathon – Mr Nelson has completed a staggering 17 marathons at the end of ironman triathlons.

The marathon was another feather in his cap, having previously completed numerous ironman triathlons and ultra trail marathons including The Northface 100 Australia, Vietnam 100km Ultra and the Kalahari Augrabies Extreme marathon (240km self-sufficient over six days).

Mr Nelson said he was very grateful for the opportunity and said it was an amazing experience.

“I completed the race in 3 hours 43 minutes which was a personal best. I was also fortunate to be joined by my wife who also ran the event and provided moral support. 

“The people of Senshu are very supportive of this wonderful sporting and cultural event. They were so welcoming and friendly. I got to meet the Tadaoka’s Council Mayor and the President of the Friendship Association.

“We were taken on a tour of nearby towns and local school children taught us the practice of writing Japanese scripts and calligraphy. We were also the special guests at the opening ceremony of the marathon followed by a sushi feast.” Mr Nelson said.

Mr Nelson did an incredible job representing Council coming 762 out of 3235 finishers. Well done!