Danica Bonello Spiteri wrapped up her 2014 season by taking part in the Xterra World Champion-ships in Maui, recently.

Malta’s leading female triathlete earned the right to race on the Hawaiian island where the Xterra event was born almost 20 years ago after winning the ITU World Cross Triathlon Championship in August.

Forty countries were represented in Maui with Bonello Spiteri becoming the first Maltese to compete in such high-level cross triathlon event.

The race lived up to its reputation as a truly offroad challenge, including the swim section.

This leg, at DT Fleming Beach, was marked by a strong underwater current along with a massive swell and waves that made the athletes work harder at their swimming skills.

Bonello Spiteri exited the water as sixth female overall (first in her age group) and headed out to the cycling portion.

She struggled in this segment, losing ground as the first eight kilometres of the course were all uphill, featuring steep, slippery slopes. That was followed by rocky descents and multiple sharp twists that required high biking techniques and full concentration.

Getting off the bike, Bonello Spiteri was well aware that she had to work hard in the run, her forte, to make up for her struggles in the cycling part.

Run itinerary

The 10km trail run had competitors tackling a 5km uphill route followed by downhills with an additional 25 per cent-gradient 400m climb at the 8km mark.

The final stretch was a 600m run across the sandy beach up to the finish.

Bonello Spiteri found the run quite hard on her legs but still managed to clamber back a few positions. She had the sixth fastest run of all the female participants, finishing fourth overall in her category in a time of 3hrs 42mins.

“Racing in the Xterra World Championship Race was an eye-opener for me as to how hard cross triathlon can be,” Bonello Spiteri said.

“I was just outside a podium finish and I know where I lost valuable time.

“That makes me more determined to train hard for cross triathlon. I will be back to try and win this race one day.

“I’ve also been fortunate to have Ecco Sports supporting me on this occasion. My 2014 season has now come to an end, and I wish to thank all my other sponsors www.buffmalta.com and BBB cycling for their support.”