Sakai is, as the tourist brochure might read, a city of contrasts. Perhaps the most obvious contrast to Kiwis is the mix of old and new. The old is best represented by the tea ceremony. Sakai is home to the tea ceremony - where four hundred years ago the tea master Sen-no-Rikyu perfected its art. Its minimalist structure captures the qualities of peace, contemplation and zen patience.
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Having just completed the Masterton marathon in October 2012, forms came out inviting two Wellington resident marathon runners to apply for the role of Wellington Ambassadors to Sakai City. I made it through to the panel interview and then to the draw where the Mayor, Celia Wade-Brown pulled out both Stephen Day’s and my name. My coach, Chris Speakman, prepared a 12-week training programme for me to follow over the summer months in preparation for a winter marathon! Fortunately I persuaded a friend to train for the New Plymouth marathon so I had a training partner.
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