Balzan, Walsh defend title in Żurrieq

Jonathan Balzan won the 12th Maxim Żurrieq half marathon which was held last Sunday.

The course remained unchanged and led through the scenic parts of the southwest coast of the island as runners ran across Żurrieq, Safi, Mqabba, Wied iż-Żurrieq and Ħaġar Qim, past the suburban Siġġiewi village.

Balzan crossed the finishing line in 1:12.09, almost 20 seconds faster than his all-time best for the course and over three minutes ahead of his nearest rival to become the first Maltese male runner to successfully defend his title in Żurrieq.

Brian Magri, race winner in 2001, was second and Richard Chetcuti third.

The evergreen Carol Walsh retained the women's title in a time of 1.24.37, bettering her winning time of last year by three minutes.

Walsh won with a 69-second margin over Giselle Camilleri. Josann Attard placed third.

The team event was won by host club Żurrieq Wolves. Their team was composed of Joseph Saliba, Mario Grech and Adrian Mifsud. Camilleri, along with Marisa Muscat and Pauline Vella, led St Patrick's AC to victory in the women's team event.

On Sunday, 111 runners completed the half-marathon, including Victor Spiteri, the Over 70 category winner who covered the distance in 2:04.01. Alfred Debono was first in the Over 65 class in 1:28.36.

Also on Sunday, a 1.5km fun run was held in Żurrieq and attracted numerous families in the club's attempt to promote a healthy lifestyle through running.

The next Żurrieq Half Marathon will be held on November 7, 2010.