The Barlick vest has been seen in all four corners of the circular globe thanks to John Boothman who seems intent on completing marathons in every Continent. 

John paints an amazing picture of Japan which is culturally so different to what we are used to.  The Japanese are hospitable, impeccably well mannered and take a great pride in keeping their Country so clean and tidy.  There is no litter anywhere and very few rubbish bins.  People just take their rubbish home.  There is next to no graffiti and crime is near to non existent.  Small children travel on their own on trains in safety, all dressed immaculately and the transport system is outstanding and efficient, timed to within seconds.  John recommends that if the opportunity presents itself, everyone should visit this Country.

The race is held within Japanese cultural norms.  No plastic bottles are allowed in the race and only 250ml x 2 is allowed for fluid in either foil or cardboard cartoons.  You must carry your own litter and you must not relieve yourself  anywhere except in designated toilets.  There are of course drink stations around the course.  The crowds are much different to Western crowds and there is not any screaming and shouting, just polite waves and claps.

John's objective was to finish the race which he did in a time of 3:46.

After the race John and his wife Angela took some time out to explore what he describes as an amazing Country.

61 Dave Halliday 25:39