Malta Challenge Marathon

Maltese runners Jonathan Balzan and Carmen Hili were the winners yesterday of the opening stage of this year's Gatorade International Malta Challenge Marathon.

At Rabat, Balzan completed the 11.195kms race in 38:25 and Hili in 46:10.

Balzan was followed home by British Army Group members Barry Stoddart (39:23) and Christopher Walsh (40:18).

Charmaine Scribbins, of the UK, was second behind 2004 Challenge winner Hili in 49:23 and Marika Micallef third in 50:35.

The second stage, a six-kilometre run in Birzebbuga, will be held today. The Challenge comes to a close tomorrow morning in Valletta's Freedom Square.

In all, 91 runners were under starter Peter Farrugia's orders yesterday at Mdina Gate.