Bonello fastest at Mrieħel time trial

The first round of the Time Trial Championship was held recently at the Mrieħel bypass.

Etienne Bonello, of Team Greens, was the fastest on the day after covering the 24.5km distance in 36:20. Mosta AF Sign Studio's Steve Sciberras was second, 37:55, and Jack Schiavone, of Qormi Scott, third in 38:10.

The inclement weather that characterised the early morning race complicated matters for the riders who set off at one-minute intervals.

The race was very close at first as the top cyclists clocked similar times in the initial laps. However, Bonello produced an emphatic effort in the last kilometres to grab the win with a margin of 95 seconds.

Marie Claire Aquilina kept her momentum going by win-ning the women's race ahead of Team Greens team-mate Danica Bonello Spiteri. Marica Micallef, of Melita Pedal Power, was third.

James Dimech (Mosta) was the fastest junior ahead of Bernhard Azzopardi (Greens) and Daniel Borg (Mosta).

In other time-trials, Mark Bugeja (Greens) won the Masters category and the 50+ race honours went to Team Greens veteran Lino Fabri.

The time-trial was organised by the Malta Cycling Federation. They were assisted by the Malta Police, club officials and other volunteers.

The race also marked the 76th birthday of two cycling pioneers, namely former federation head Josie Lanfranco and Paul Attard, president of Qormi CC. Both are still active in the sport.

The next race will be the second round of the Road Race Championship at Ta' Penellu on May 23.