Fast times in Mosta five-mile race
Douglas establishes new course record
AS Libertas Running Club recently organised the annual series of road races in Mosta, including the five-mile race, the main event on the day. All races started from near the main square proceeding, towards Ta' Qali and back.
In the men's race, James Douglas (Birkirkara St Joseph) took the lead followed closely by guest runner Lynton Lythgoe, of Kent, Gerald Grech (AS Libertas), Brian Magri (Athleta Pembroke) and Jonathan Balzan (St Patrick's AC).
At the three-mile mark, Douglas opened a 15-second lead in front with Grech behind after detaching from the group. Then, Jonathan Balzan upped the pace one mile from home and eventually overtook Grech in second place.
Most of the runners registered fast timings on the day. Race winner Douglas covered the distance in a new course record time of 25 minutes and 15 seconds.
Balzan and Grech also registered personal best times on the course in 25.26 and 25.38 respectively.
The top contenders in the women's race were virtually running on their own all the way.
Angela Sammut (St Patrick's) emerged clear winner in 30.31 followed by Nadia Portelli (Athleta Pembroke - 33.48) and Rachel Galea (Zurrieq Wolves - 35.48).
The five-miler was followed by other races for youths.
In the boys' event, Karl Camilleri (AS Libertas) finished first followed by Ernest Desira (St Patrick's) and Andrea Mizzi (De la Salle).
The girls' youth race was won by Tiziana Zammit (AS Libertas). The runner-up was Monalisa Camilleri (AS Libertas) and Ingrid Abela (Carlo Diacono JL) placed third.
A presentation ceremony was held afterwards at the Mosta Local Council hall. Trophies were distributed by mayor Paul Chetcuti.
The race was made possible thanks to the support of the Mosta Local Council, Fexco Ltd, Pimex Ltd and HSBC.