Federation president Zammit concerned with spiralling costs

Malta Cycling Federation president John Zammit talked about the financial difficulties facing his organisation while addressing delegates during an annual general meeting held recently at the Cottonera Sports Complex.

Zammit, along with Anthony Muscat Baron (secretary) and Austin Camilleri (treasurer), was confirmed to his post for another two years at the end of the meeting.

Among the topics tackled by Zammit in his winding up speech was the federation's coffers. He said it was difficult to make ends meet, particularly when organising road races and then covering the costs incurred.

Zammit said the situation has to be addressed immediately as it has become nearly impossible to pay the ever increasing fees to hold road races during the season.

"The federation would rather invest its limited resources in the development of cyclists who dedicate most of their free time to the sport," Zammit said.

In his review of the past season, Zammit described 2005/06 as successful and exciting. He commended the level achieved in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games as well as the keen competition in local races.

The new season is now scheduled to start on February 4 with the classic opener - the Qormi-Dingli individual time-trial.

Zammit promised an eventful calendar while urging for the co-operation of all those involved in the sport.

The first part of the calendar will feature races organised by the clubs, an ideal warm-up for the Tour of Malta between April 12 and 15.

The Tour has been very much welcomed by the Maltese clubs as well as the foreign teams, some of whom have already confirmed their participation.

The season will finish off with the six national championship races which will determine the road and time trial champions.