Culver City Observer -

Can you run a marathon in 4 1/2 hours?

The Culver City Sister City Committee will send one male and female runner to the 17th annual Senshu International Marathon, Feb. 21, 2010, hosted by sister city Kaizuka, Japan.

As good citizen diplomats, Feb. 19-25, the two selected runners will reside with Kaizuka families during the weeklong stay. Most expenses will be covered, including airfare, lodging, meals and sightseeing. Culver City residents will be given preference

Culver City representatives Craig Schoenbaum and Anne Nevison-Brand, enjoyed their experience at the recent Senshu Marathon.

“A heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to experience the graciousness, generosity, and enthusiasm of the people of Kaizuka City, Japan. We were treated like celebrities and also members of their families. The mayor has been wonderful along with the other Kaizuka City Council members. Our host families gave us the utmost in hospitality,” said Schoenbaum.

The male (3 hr. 20 min.) and female (4 hr. 17 min.) runners from Kaizuka competed in the recent LA Marathon during the annual exchange of sister city runners.

If you are interested in being considered for this exciting lifetime opportunity, please e-mail a short letter to Kaizuka Chairman, C.C. Sister City Committee, Mike Cohen at mrculvercity@mrculvercity.com or call 310-836-0440. Please furnish name, address, phone number, date of birth, running club (if a member) and marathon running times for events you have entered over the last two years. All applications must be received by Oct. 23.