The sport of trail running is gradually gaining momentum on our islands with both complete running newbies and seasoned athletes participating in the various events on the local calendar.

Clearly, the lure of seeing often unknown places and getting away from overcrowded streets is becoming irresistible to many.

This year’s Compressport Trail Running League kicked off recently with a 4.7km race in Buskett.

In all, 40 participants took on the trails of the woodland in the limits of Rabat. Smiling from ear to ear in spite of their now muddy shoes, all seemed to relish the challenge this sport offers at the finish line.

In a bid to encourage newcomers, no time limit was set for the race in Buskett.

Spanish ultra-runner Carlos Mantero immediately took command of the race, notwithstanding his dislike to short distances.

A small group of runners gave chase, including triathlete Alixander Schembri, Mario Zarb and promising youngster Santino Boghetta.

The women’s race was similarly led by veteran runner Nadia Portelli with Donnah Calleja, another newcomer to trail running, and adventure racer Catherine Halpin fighting for the runner-up spot.

In the end, Mantero and Portelli took top honours in their respective categories but it remained a close battle for the remaining podium spots to the very end.

The race was organised by Agones SFC with the assistance of Compressport Malta.

The next race from the league will be held on Friday, a seven-kilometre night stage. More information is available from www.agones-sfc.eu.

Race results

Men – 1. Carlos Mantero (Savio AC) 19:47; 2. Alixander Schembri (Birkirkara St Joseph) 19:50; 3. Mario Zarb (Agones SFC) 19:53.

Women – 1. Nadia Portelli (Agones SFC) 24:30; 2. Donnah Calleja (Agones SFC) 26:05; 3. Catherine Halpin (Agones SFC) 26:42.