Jellyfish force cancellation of open sea challenge

An invasion of jellyfish has led to the cancellation of a Gozo-Malta swimming event.

The Gozo-Malta Open Sea Swimming Challenge, in aid of Ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija, was meant to have been held on Saturday, organised by the Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club.

But it turned out to be impossible for the swimmers to enter the water at Hondoq ir-Rummien because it was swarming with jellyfish, the club said in a statement.

This was the second time this summer that the club has had to cancel the race - the first time was in July because of rough seas.

More than 40 swimmers, a number of them taking up the challenge for the first time, were expected to cross the channel following months of preparation.

The event itself is a challenge for the organisers, who were given full assistance by the authorities to ensure a safe crossing for the participants.