Sunday, November 29 was another special day for Żurrieq Wolves as their team went on to claim top spot in the Malta International Challenge Marathon, 26.2 miles spread over three days.

With Jonathan Balzan and Brian Magri contesting the first two positions, the attention on the last day of the marathon also focused on the 'friendly duel' for the last place on the podium between Joseph Saliba and Joseph Abdilla, both Żurrieq runners.

Saliba started the third leg enjoying a slim one-second lead, however, both knew that they were in for a tough race ahead from St Paul's Bay to Valletta. Eventually, Abdilla crossed the finish line six seconds ahead of Saliba.

Later, both were on the podium alongside Mario Grech and Adrian Mifsud, to claim the award for teams after averaging an aggregate time of 7:45.20.

St Patrick's were second and Mellieħa AC third.

In a statement, Żurrieq Wolves secretary Tony Barbara said the club was pleased with the result.

"Zurrieq runners are currently performing excellently, as this success in the Challenge follows similar achievements in the Road Running League cross country and the Żurrieq Half Marathon," he said.

Barbara also showed his appreciation to Vince Ghigo, Jesmond Bartolo, Alan Cachia, and Simon Lia (who had to skip the race due to an injury). They ran for the club's B Team in the Challenge and placed fourth overall.

Meanwhile, Żurrieq Wolves members Brian Vella, Charles Abela, Charles Herd and Paul Fenech also completed the Challenge on Sunday. For Herd and Fenech it was their 19th consecutive participation in the three-day race.

Fenech is 71-years-old and still sets an example to younger generations who follow the sport, Żurrieq Wolves' statement added.

Attention now turns to the Mdina-Spinola race on December 20.

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