David takes on the Tokyo Marathon to help hospices

A Prestatyn Man will be flying the flag for North Wales in the Tokyo Marathon – after forgetting he even entered it. David Ellis, 40, put his name into the ballot last August not expecting to get a place when a surprise message arrived before Christmas telling him he’d won one of only 2,000 places for overseas athletes.

What’s even more remarkable is that David only started running two years ago to get healthier and has even dropped three stone in the process.

David, Assistant Manager at Jackson’s Garden Centre, Trelawnyd said: "It was a bit of a surprise really as I’d completely forgotten I’d entered it. Luckily I’d been training four times a week and had completed the Chester and Manchester marathons last year, so am actually looking forward to it.”

David will be raising money in sponsorship for local charity Hope House Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospices of whom his employer have been long-time supporters.

“It was through that connection and my support of their shop in Flint that I decided to choose the hospices as my charity. I really respect what they do for families in the area and my future races will be for them too.”

David’s number one fan is his 13-year-old son Jayden and they have even adorned their home in the town with Japanese flags.

“Jayden is a great supporter and always comes along to events and training with Prestatyn Running club where I am captain. He’s like the club mascot,” said David.

With the Tokyo Marathon being renowned as a fast and flat race, David is hoping for a good time and the expected 12 degree weather will certainly help the 37,000 runners get around easier.

The event takes place on Sunday March 3, and David will be flying out to Tokyo on Wednesday, February 28 to get set and then see some of Japan’s sights.

If you would like to sponsor David then click here.

Location: Prestatyn, Denbighshire.