By Ross Heaton

Yamauchi came third in her last marathon in Tokyo

Oxford-born marathon runner Mara Yamauchi says she is considering changing sports to become a cross-country skier.

The 35-year-old finished a highly-creditable sixth in this year's Olympic marathon, but told BBC Oxford she could be ready for a change of disciplines.

"I have this dream of becoming a cross-country skier because it is an endurance sport," said Yamauchi.

"Starting out as a 35-year old, I do not know if it will go anywhere."

Yamauchi, who is now permanently based in Tokyo with her husband Shige, says there are examples from other Olympians that could prove an inspiration.

"A lot of top athletes have switched sports. Rebecca Romero won a cycling gold medal after having been a rower," she added.

"I am looking into it at this stage, but at the moment I am sticking to marathon running."

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