Some of Malta's main networks will be closed for traffic this morning to make way for around 700 runners taking part in the 20th BMW Malta Marathon and Half Marathon.

With various road works currently underway, race organisers had to shift from the old route, which passed through the Zebbug-Qormi stretch before reaching Marsa, to Ta' Qali, Mosta, Attard and down the Mriehel Bypass for December 13 Road and all the way to the finishing line in Sliema.

Participation numbers are more or less of the previous year with local runners again showing keen interest, particularly in the half-marathon. Last year, there were 538 finishers in the 13-mile race and 144 completed the full marathon, 26 miles.

Moroccan Abdel Kebir Marchane, the 2001, 2003 and 2004 winner, starts favourite again. However, a Russian runner, who made a late entry has a personal best of 2:13. He could be Marchane's main challenger today.

The marathon starts from Mdina at 8 a.m. The starting time of the half-marathon, also from Mdina, is 10 a.m.