Local entry up but date change hits overseas participation

The 15th edition of the three-day Malta International Challenge Marathon gets underway today at Rabat notwithstanding difficulties that forced organisers to effect some changes.

Despite having to move the event by one week from its usual slot because of CHOGM, and losing over 60 overseas runners and their partners due to the very late notification of the date change, the Runners' Centre decided to go ahead with the show.

The date change meant that the overseas runners are at an all-time low. However, the reverse of the coin is that the Maltese entry is the highest it has been for many years.

Barry M. Whitmore, the Race Director, said: "Those who have committed themselves to run with the new date, deserve our support. We will not let them down.

"Our working team is ready and with the full backing of the police, will give the 94 registered runners what they have paid for."

Whitmore reckons this year will be the most "open" Challenge. "Anyone can surprise us and win," he said.

Dave Mansbridge, winner of the inaugural race in 1991 and 13-time participant, is injured but from the Maltese corner, Jonathan Balzan, first local in 2004, and women's challenge winner last year, Carmen Hili will defend their titles.

Of the 54 Maltese registered entries by midweek, there were 47 men and seven women. From the overseas side, 27 are male and 13 female. There are 37 senior runners, nine female U-35 and 28 male U-40. There are 57 veterans - 11 female over 35 and 46 male over 40.

Nine countries will be represented in the Challenge, namely the United States, England, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, Scotland and Wales.

Balzan, of St Patrick's, recently had a great run in Palermo but returned with a slight injury. He told Whitmore he is a little hesitant but wants to do well and hopes to improve on his 'Challenge' time. Peter Azzopardi, of Mellieha AC, could give Balzan a good challenge over the three days.

From the overseas runners, the surprises could well come from the British Army team of 10 runners, all based at Hammersmith Barracks in Herford, Germany. In all, there will be 18 teams, 14 male and four female.

The first stage, an 11.195kms run, starts at noon today from near the Mdina Gardens. Tomorrow's second (6kms) is at Birzebbuga and the final stage (25kms) takes runners from St Paul's Bay to Valletta's Freedom Square.

Organisers said there will be $4,000 worth of awards. These will all be presented on Monday at the Dolmen Resort Hotel.

Meanwhile, the dates for next year have already been decided - November 24-26. Requests can be made to the Malta Challenge Marathon, PO Box 91, Sliema SLM 01 or by email: info@maltamarathonchallenge.com.