Ararat Parkrunner Nathan Bendelle will compete in a 42.2-kilometre marathon in London on Sunday, April 21. He will join 40,000 other participants in one of the world's most prestigious races, and he will be joined by Sue Blizzard and Helen McPherson, two fellow Ararat Parkrunners.
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Mr Bendelle began participating in Parkrun in 2013 after being inspired by the television Biggest Loser's visit to Ararat in 2011.
After conquering four marathons and 150 Parkruns, his interest in the possibility of an international race was piqued, a testament to his remarkable endurance and commitment.
He mentioned his interest in international competition to his running coach, Sue Blizzard.
"We asked the members of our running team if anyone was interested, and Helen put her hand up, so there are three of us going," he said.
Mr. Bendelle and his teammates began training for the London event 18 months ago after he mentioned his interest in an international race to his coach.
"As they say, the rest is history," he said.
Mr Bendelle is not motivated to achieve the best time or placement in the race.
"I just think we'll see amazing sites along the way," he said.
The temperature is forecast to be around 16 degrees, so he is comfortable the day should go well.
The grueling 42,2-kilometre race finishes in front of Buckingham Palace, so perhaps the wrong phrase for marathon runners is to say they are holding their breath for a glimpse of King Charles, but they are hoping the king makes an appearance and a selfie opportunity at least.
One of his most memorable earlier marathons was along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.
"Just running along the coastline all the way was fantastic," he said.
When he returns from London, he will rest for a while, then begin training for the Melbourne Marathon in October 2024.
Looking ahead, Mr Bendelle is planning a family trip to Europe to participate in the Berlin Marathon in 2026.
Mr Bendelle is married to his wife Nicole, and they have two sons. He is a boiler maker and welder.
A record 578,374 people entered the ballot for the 2024 London Marathon, so having three from Ararat is a remarkable achievement for the runners.