Last Sunday marked the sixth BRND WGN & University Ring Road Races and once again the event proved to be one for the books, with almost 400 participants gathering at the University athletics track.

This is the second year that BRND WGN has collaborated with the organisers – Malta University Holding Company – as title sponsors, to help the races reach new heights. What makes this event so special, apart from providing an opportunity for university students and staff to integrate with the rest of the community, is the fact that half the proceeds are donated to Hospice Malta.

The sunshine, as well as numerous forms of live entertainment, helped keep spirits high as the event kicked off with the five-kilometre race and walk. In the male section, the race was won by Jean Claude Randon, a young athlete who is proving to be a force to reckon with.

Mr Randon was followed by Charles Camilleri and Mario Agius, in what turned out to be a close battle for second and third place. Fresh from her victory in the Malta Marathon, Josann Attard Pulis won the female race, ahead of Agnetha Aguis, who was followed by Maureen Farrugia.

Young children, all smiles as they set off on their 800m Fun Run.

The two-kilometre race was won by Matthias Cristiano in a new course record of 6:18. The young Maria Schembri emerged victorious in the female sector. Team XG, a group of athletes coached by Xandru Grech, dominated both the male and female sectors in the five-kilometre relay, always a favourite among spectators and competitors alike.

With numerous companies using this race as an ideal team builder, MYTA Coaches took first place in the corporate section, while MYTA C were awarded first team under 20. An 800m fun run was also organised, which proved to be a winner with young children, making it an ideal Sunday morning out for families.

Even though there could only be one winner in each race, everyone seemed to be having a blast as they ran, walked or even danced their way to the finish line.  Johanna Galea, one of the founders of what has become an annual event was just as enthusiastic about how things panned out:

“The BRND WGN & University Ring Road Races are extremely close to my heart; firstly due to the philosophy behind them – that of running for a cause. Furthermore, over the years, I have watched them grow massively into what they are today. Each year we aim to make them more fun for all and watching the event come together always makes me feel extremely proud.

“I am grateful for the massive external support we receive yearly and I would say that the actual day’s success depends very much on a combined effort between the organising team, sponsors, other supporters and participants alike.

“All in all, the sixth edition has left us all buzzing and we are already looking forward to planning our next one.”

The three males in the five-kilometre race, from left, Charles Camilleri (second), Jean Claude Randon (first overall) and Mario Agius (third overall).

Young triathlete Jake Vella is currently battling a rare condition called Rohhad, which causes excess weight gain.