Schoolchildren are likely to play a leading role in this year’s edition of the Pembroke and Swieqi races, Pembroke Athleta athletics section president Victor Camilleri said.

During last week’s launching of the races, to be held on March 31, Camilleri said that with the promotion undertaken and through the collaboration of the heads of schools and the physical education teachers, applications were coming in thick and fast.

Referring to the 10km event for established athletes, Camilleri explained that while entries seemed to have levelled out, the year-to-year registration was nonetheless very encouraging, this time with an entry of 150 guaranteed.

“Besides the 10km race, the relatively new 5km event and the walk over seven kilometres are also gaining in popularity from year to year.

“Proceeds from the walk event will again go to the Inspire Foundation,” Camilleri said.

With reference to the route and the many constraints encountered due to the increase in traffic, Camilleri said changes were being introduced to facilitate the work of the marshals, the Police Force and Local Traffic Wardens, at various points along the course.