Flags at the ready as runners head for Palermo

Flags don't normally feature in athletes' travel bags but as a group of local runners head for the 23rd edition of the Palermo Full and Half Marathons, some enterprising individual will undoubtedly ensure that the Maltese colours are at hand.

Someone did two years ago and it came in handy as Jonathan Balzan won that year's half marathon in 1 hour 12 minutes and 13 seconds.

Balzan will again form part of the group of athletes for the October 14 races, largely made up of members from within his own club - St Patrick's AC.

This time he will be competing in the full marathon along with Mario Pisani who also did well two years ago when finishing sixth.

The group leaves on October 12. Besides the half and full marathons, a super marathon of 50 kms will be taking place, all starting at the same time (9 a.m.) from Mondello.

Before Palermo, however, most of the athletes will be taking part in the Gudja Ronhill 8km race that is also organised by St Patrick's AC, on Sunday. In fact, Balzan will start as one of the favourites to win the race that last year saw Drew Lang come out on top.

St Patrick's AC are also planning a trip for the Paris Marathon in April 2008. Anyone interested in joining the group may contact the club by phoning 9988-7807 or by sending an e-mail to stpatricsac@ gmail.com.