Balzan in record time

A brilliant and cloudless, though damp, morning yesterday greeted the 95 runners as they were set off by Peter Farrugia, president of the St Patrick's Athletics Club, organisers of the traditional Dingli 10-mile race in collaboration with the Dingli Local Council.

Jonathan Balzan's intentions were evident from the start. He was determined not only to win the race for the second successive year but also to set a new record time. And he succeeded in achieving both in sparkling fashion.

This talented, long distance runner darted in front as the runners tackled the comparatively 'easy' first part of the course down to Nigret and the Fiddien valley.

But the real test of this tough race starts at the five-mile mark as the field winds its way uphill right up to Dingli Cliffs.

By that time, Balzan, increasing his punishing pace, had already established a comfortable lead and barring accidents he had the race already sewn up.

As he appeared all alone, running impressively for the last two miles, the question on everybody's lips was whether he would in fact set a new mark.

Continuing his hard work, a great round of applause greeted this dedicated athlete and sportsman as he crossed the finishing line in a record time of 55:25. The old record for the present course, 56:12, was set up jointly by Robert Attard and Charles Cilia in 2000.

"This is a magnificent follow-up to my second placing in the Malta Half Marathon," a beaming and fully satisfied Balzan said.

"The humid conditions made us perspire a lot but I had put my mind on accomplishing the two targets I set myself... and I am greatly pleased that I did."

Drew Lang, three-times winner of the race (1996, 1997 and 2001) was second (59:01) while Charlie Vella was third (1:01.30).

In the women's section, two very familiar faces topped the list with Cecilia Fenech finishing first (1:06.50) followed by Carmen Hili, this year's Malta Marathon winner, 2:22 behind. Third was Daniela Casha (1:16.36).

The 2.3-mile junior race was won by Andrea Camilleri (12:32) followed by Karl Zammit and Christian Formosa. Lara Vella won the girls' section (14:50) with Yana Pace Cocks and Roberta Borg, second and third respectively.

Neil Pace Cocks was first in the Fun Run while Ismael Falzon and Amanda Balzan were presented with mementos for their achievements in the special section reserved for persons with special needs.