Henderson to run in Twin Cities Marathon

As a result Geoff had a pacemaker fitted and you would think the Binalong farmer might have slowed down. But the reality is quite the opposite.

Instead, Geoff's off to Mineapolis, Minnesota in the United States of America to run 16 kilometres as part of the Twin Cities Marathon in October. And, even better, it's an all expenses paid trip.

Geoff was selected as one of 25 runners globally and will represent Australia in the event, watched by more than 300,000 Americans each year. He will compete thanks to Medtronics, a multi-billion dollar US company responsible for the production and distribution of all types of medical equipment, including pacemakers.

The 68-year-old said it's a great chance to reiterate the fact that you can have a normal and stress free life with a pacemaker.

"I don't even think about my pacemaker on a daily basis," he told the Tribune.

"I just get up in the morning and live."

He also wants to encourage those living in the rural community to be vigilant with taking care of their health and wellbeing.

"I think as farmers we tend to think of ourselves as bulletproof and tough and fit but in actual fact we're not as fit as we think we are."

"This selection has given me the opportunity to reinforce the fact that rural people need to be more proactive in regards to their health and seek out medical advice at every opportunity... and to also get regular check ups."

Geoff will jet to the USA with his wife Fiona, who will also compete, and he said he was surprised with his selection. But he admitted his recent trip to the Himalayas would have worked in his favour.

Earlier this year Geoff organised a trip for nine companions to Nepal where they climbed to the base of Ama Dablam. Just before he left Geoff heard of the competition and he was immediately interested.

"When I got a pacemaker I was really keen to go back to Nepal, I'd been there two years previously and loved it.

"Obviously I was over the moon when I was picked, it was a surprise but I think being from the country and being as active as I have been worked in my favour, I think that trip to Nepal was a big factor."

Geoff said he's keen to return to the USA, a country he loves.

"I've been to America a few times and I've always had a great time so I think this is a wonderful opportunity for Fiona and I.

"We are going to go to New York as well so I think it will be a nice little holiday."

Geoff and Fiona will be accompanied to the event by last year's winner Warren Williams, a school teacher from Sydney.