In its efforts to promote the sport among youths, the Malta Triathlon Federation will send three of its most promising talents – Neil Markham, Shaun Galea and Nina Zammit – to sharpen their skills at a training camp in Tiszaujvaros, Hungary.
This camp is being organised by the European Triathlon Union (ETU) and will involve some of the most renowned youth coaches around.
Also, the camp will see the young hopefuls practise along some of the best triathletes from all parts of Europe.
Accompanying the Maltese trio in Hungary is coach Marthese Fava.
Fava, who has been part of the Malta Youth Triathlon Academy for the past year, possesses a Level 1 Triathlon coaching certificate from the International Triathlon Union.
A few days ago, Zammit and Galea took part in the Junior European Cup while Markham fought his way through the ranks of elite athletes in the ITU Junior World Cup.
Both events were held in Hungary and all three were very satisfied with their respective performances.
“This was an amazing experience which helped me to understand better where I need to improve to reach the next level,” Zammit said.
Galea was of the same opinion, stating: “I knew I could do better, but this was my first experience abroad and I am happy with my timings.
“Now, I’m looking forward to this training camp in Tiszaujvaros.”
Markham showed his appreciation for being given an opportunity to test his skills with more experienced triathletes on the international scene.
“I am really grateful to the Maltese federation for this opportunity,” he said.
“Racing Elite in an ITU race was a dream and now it had become a reality.
“There were so many things to learn from this race... an experience I will not forget for a long time.”
In a statement, Triathlon Malta head Cyprian Dalli said his organisation was grateful for the help it was getting from the European and International Triathlon Federations.
“We are all very proud of our three young triathletes,” he said.
“Having three promising youths race in such high-level triathlons was an unprecedented feat for Triathlon Malta .
“We’re happy because all three of them produced some remarkable results.
“I take this opportunity to thank coach Marthese Fava for her contribution and the European and International federations for their continuous support and guidance.”