Fine results for Maltese riders in Sicily race

The Malta Cycling Federation (MCF) has already embarked on its preparation programme for the next Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) to be held in Andorra in 2005.

After the outstanding results recorded in San Marino two years ago, the MCF's goal is to emulate and, perhaps, improve on those achievements.

Although cycling was not included in this year's GSSE sports programme in Malta, the national team has been competing in international events to maintain the momentum.

Recently, the Maltese selection, composed of Jack Schiavone, Etienne Bonello, Roderick Muscat and Ishmael Muscat, participated in the Trofeo del Vulcano.

The 110km race, which finished with the 30km climb of mount Etna, formed part of the Italian national calendar. The race also qualified as a Granfondo European Championships event.

The number of participants was 337, including some Italian professionals.

This was by far the toughest competition faced by the Maltese riders but they exceeded expectations.

Although Maltese cyclists are not used to lengthy climbs and big fields, their performance was outstanding.

Junior rider Roderick Muscat managed to place fourth in the debutantes' category while Bonello and Schiavone obtained second and third places respectively in the non-professional elite category.

This was a remarkable achievement considering the nature of the race route and the importance of the event.

In the meantime, the local activities are still on-going with national championship races being held regularly before the national riders return to Sicily for more international competition next weekend.