Hosted for the 22^nd time, the acclaimed Senshu International City Marathon once again opens up a full marathon challenge to avid long-distance runners. Organised by Osaka Athletics Association and co-sponsored by the Senshu region, the race celebrates sports and culture in the region comprising of 9 cities and 4 towns.

On Sunday, 15 February 2015, runners will flag off at 10:30 a.m., starting from Hamadera Park, one of the oldest prefectural parks in Osaka. Making a U-turn at the Ohama-Nakamachi turning point, marathoners will then course through several cities and towns sprawled across Osaka prefecture. During this time, they will have already met hundred and thousands of locals lining the streets with music, enthusiastically cheering the participants on and providing moral encouragement.

Along the Izumisano-Iwade Road overlooking the magnificent sea coast, they will ascend and descend Sky Bridge and Marine Bridge twice. Running across the bridge in the region is considered one of the highlights of the race, as the bridge is a symbol of the city. Finally, they will finish at Rinku Park near Kansai International Airport in bustling Rinku Town.

Capped at 5,000 participants, the organising committee will ballot slots if there is an overwhelming response. Male and female participants have to be over 18 years of age and are expected to be able to complete the 42.195km race within the stipulated 5h time limit. The running route, certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF), will have 6 different timed gate-points: 10.7km, 16.6km, 23.9km, 28.9km, 34.3km and 39.4km. The entry fee for the race is 8,000 JPY with part of it to be donated to the Great East Japan Earthquake charities and other charities.

The two fastest male and female runners and residents of Senshu City will be selected to represent Osaka in the Gold Coast Marathon in July 2015. Runners who finish the international race within the 5h limit will be sent a Finisher's Certificate after the race by the middle of March. Meanwhile, the festivities continue with many other activities lined up at the marathon's finishing point including lucky draw, booths and talk shows for all to enjoy.

To find out more about the Senshu International City Marathon 2015, you can visit its official site.