Road Running League starts tomorrow

Tomorrow morning, the streets of Zebbug will once again host hundreds of athletes as the MAAA Road Running League - the most prestigious series on the local scene - gets underway.

This first leg is always particularly popular with the athletes since the relatively flat route allows many to register fast times. Yet last year's race ended in controversy as a problem with the timing devices led to the forfeiture of results.

Hopefully, there will be no such controversy this year round. That will also be the hope of those looking to gain an early lead in a series which sees last year's winner Charles Cilia, now at Mellieha AC, starting as favourite.

In recent years Cilia has been going from strength to strength with a series of impressive results both here and abroad.

Gerald Grech, of AS Libertas, was second last year but will be looking to go one better this time. The middle distance specialist has been focusing on longer races lately and reclaiming the title he won in 2004 will be among his priorities.

Yet, both Cilia and Grech will have to look out for the challenge of James Douglas.

Birkirkara St Joseph's British athlete has been in fine form so far winning both the LRC six-mile race and the St Vincent De Paul 5K. If he can keep up that kind of form, he could give Cilia a hard time.

The ever-improving Mark Herrera (Athleta Pembroke) can be considered as an outside bet for the title as can St Patrick's AC's Jonathan Balzan if he can shake off injury.

No amount of good form from her rivals will be enough to beat leading female athlete Carol Walsh, of Athleta Pembroke. If she takes part, the only doubt is who will finish second behind her.

Lisa Marie Bezzina (Athleta Pembroke) usually fills up that spot although Giselle Camilleri, finally free from the injury that has hindered her so much during the past couple of years, will be looking to put on some pressure.

Ronhill sponsor for St Patrick's AC

At the recent Gudja Ronhill 8K, St Patrick's launched their new running kit. Manufactured by Ronhill clothing, this kit is the result of a new partnership agreement with www.enjoytherun.com who will be supporting both male and female teams for the coming season.

2005/06 men's league winners - St Patrick's AC - will be spearheaded by Balzan and veteran Drew Lang along with Simon Camilleri, Michael Gellel, Patrick Saliba, Simon Stafrace and Clive Gerada.

In the women's team, Camilleri will be joined by Angela Sammut, Carmen Hili, Paula Vella, Danica Spiteri and Marica Micallef who are all athletes capable of registering good times.