Osaka has once again invited San Francisco to send a runner to participate in the Osaka Half-Marathon, beginning at Osaka Castle and finishing at the Soccer Stadium--Nagai Stadium.

Following the guidelines that were arranged many years ago, Christopher Phipps, of San Francisco, has been selected. Chris was the highest ranking finisher in the Bay to Breakers last year.

Last year San Francisco was pleased to have the top woman finisher, Maggie Visser represent the City.

Chris and his wife, Karin, will leave for Osaka on Wednesday, February 18. The race is on Sunday February 22nd. They return on to San Francisco on the 24th. Osaka has graciously offered to take care of all the arrangements for Chris to participate.

Chris and his wife have never been to Japan or any other Asian country. It will be an exciting adventure for them as they become "Ambassadors" for San Francisco and the San Francisco-Osaka Sister City Association.

Chris is taking a letter from our mayor to their mayor along with a gift from the city. He will be giving a full report at the San Francisco-Osaka Sister City Annual Meeting in May. Chris has the advantage of knowing other runners who have experienced a trip to Japan and has had the opportunity to learn from them.