Cilia continues record-breaking trail in Gozo
Camilleri tops women's race
Joe Pace's long-standing record at the Gozo Half Marathon is no more. At Xaghra last Sunday, Charles Cilia clocked one hour 11 minutes 40 seconds - almost 40 seconds faster than the previous best which had been set 12 years ago.
At that time Pace, one of Malta's road running greats, was at the peak of his career, so for Cilia to improve on his record is a fine achievement.
It was also the ideal send off for him as he prepares to take part in the Vienna marathon today.
This was the 31st edition of the Gozo Half Marathon, making it one of the oldest road races in the Maltese islands. Yet, it is perhaps also one of the least known.
Efforts are however being made to increase its popularity and appeal. Better marshalling and water stations certainly made this year's race all the more enjoyable for the athletes taking part.
The number of hilly climbs that are typical of Gozo make this half-marathon particularly tough but it is also one of the most spectacular, passing through the squares of at least seven villages.
This year's success was the third time for Cilia (AS Libertas), who was well clear of the rest of the field.
Indeed, the second-placed athlete, Andrew Grech, finished in 1:19.00 with last year's winner Jimmy Sacco just behind him in 1:19.05. Both these athletes hail from Mellieha AC.
The women's half marathon was won by Giselle Camilleri of St Patrick's AC in 1:28.26. Second place went to team-mate Pauline Vella 1:44.11. Saviour Cutajar (1:43.10) was the first Gozitan home.
On the same day as the half-marathon, an eight-mile race was held in Gozo with Drew Lang (St Patrick's AC) winning in 45.33. Lang is synonymous with this race, this year's success being the seventh consecutive one for him while he also holds the route record of 44.31 set in 2001.
Second and third were Johann Cassar (46.11), of Birkirkara SJ, and Mario Vella (46.38), of Mellieha AC, with young Shaun Agius (49.19) being the first Gozitan in this race.
Theresa Camilleri (1:00.31), of the Ladies Running Club, was the first woman and Jennifer Attard the first female Gozitan (1:08.40).
The race in Gozo also saw the return of Charmaine Sciberras who up till some time ago was one of the leading female athletes on the islands before temporarily giving up the sport. She finished in 1:02.04, placing second ahead of Francesca Arrigo (1:02.11).
A number of 4km runs and fun runs were organised for a healthy number of children.
Full results can be accessed on www.xaghra.com , www.xaghraparish.org and www.gozo.gov.mt