Malta's 'toughest' sport event held

Malta's 'toughest sports challenge'  the EC Hellfire Extreme Triathlon, was held on Sunday, seeing the toughest sports enthusiasts swim, mountain bike and trail run across some of Malta's unspoiled natural trails in the sweltering August heat.

Around 50 people took part in the full distance, short distance and the team relay event.

Ryan Saliba a young and upcoming triathlete and trail runner won the men's full distance while national triathlon champion Danica Spiteri Bonello reinforced her dominance in this extreme race by retaining her title once again. Danica is currently living in the UK so her poor acclimatization to the heat made it tough going.

Hellfire Events promote off beaten track activities that include swimming, mountain biking and trail running, as well as obstacle courses and other extreme activities. Earlier this year the Hellfire team organised Malta's first Ultra Distance 50km trail run around the perimeter of Gozo.

Participants were encouraged to raise funds for Inspire.