They are Neil Kearton and Cheryl Hickey of Corlette, and Rebecca Dennis of Raymond Terrace.

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The Port Stephens Sister Cities Committee selected the runners from seven people who responded to an invitation from The City of Tateyama and the Tateyama International Exchange Society.

Neil and Rebecca are training to run the full 42km marathon while Cheryl has elected to run the 10km leg.

The runners will be hosted in local homes for their six-day visit.

They will attend a Mayoral reception, tours and a marathon running class by a professional coach.

Neil Kearton said he was grateful to Port Stephens Council for the opportunity.

“I’m looking forward to running my first marathon in our sister city Tateyama, Japan and enjoying the whole experience of staying with a local family”.

Tateyama is one of Port Stephens’ three sister cities in Japan that are involved in regular cultural, sporting and educational exchanges.

“This event is much more than a marathon run, it will provide our entrants a unique opportunity to experience another culture at close quarters,” said Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson.

“We have an enduring, close relationship with Tateyama, which has welcomed many runners from Port Stephens over the years, resulting in lasting friendships.

“We wish Neil, Rebecca and Cheryl all the best.”

For more information on the exchange program, contact committee chairperson Nigel Dique on 0423 024 819.

By Simon EKINS