Galea and Zarb extend provisional lead

The second race from the Birkirkara St Joseph Open Sea Swimming Series was held recently at Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga on a three-lap course for a distance of two kilometres.

Series leaders Keith Galea and Isabelle Zarb extended their overall lead and, although still at an early stage, they appear to be firm favourites to retain the titles they won last year.

Galea was unchallenged throughout the race to finish in 32 minutes 10 seconds. His Birkirkara St Joseph team-mate, Keith Bartolo, clocked 33 minutes 30 seconds in second place.

The race for third place was a very close one though. The ever-improving Luke Bonnici managed to hit the finish ahead of Cliff Sultana in the final few metres. Bonnici's time was 35 minutes 17 seconds, two seconds faster than Sultana.

In the women's race, champion Zarb was not in her best form although she won in 37 minutes 19 seconds. Second-placed Michelle Wood considerably improved her performance on the first race to finish second in 37 minutes 26 seconds.

Although threatened by Donatelle Callus, Suzanne Farrugia maintained a comfortable lead to finish third in 39 minutes 57 seconds, 19 seconds ahead of her rival.

The third race from the series will be held on July 11 at Bugibba, starting at 6.30 p.m.

Registration will be accepted up to 30 minutes before the start.