Etienne Bonello lived up to expectations and confirmed his prowess in time-trial races after topping the second round of the National Championships at Baħar ic-Cagħaq on Sunday.

The Team Greens rider completed the 33.7km circuit in 48:12.

Jack Schiavone, of Qormi Scott, was back in the top positions when placing second in 49:27 ahead of team-mate David Galea, 49:31.

Held in near perfect weather conditions, the race saw the participation of 80 riders.

"It is very important to pace yourself in these kind of races and I am very satisfied with this result," Bonello said.

"Now, I will switch focus on the World Amateur Time Trial Championships which will be held in Occhiobello, Italy, on Saturday. During the past few weeks I planned to reach peak form for this competition. Hopefully, I manage to achieve a good result."

At Baħar ic-Cagħaq, Marie Claire Aquilina (Team Greens) won the women's race in 57:59 ahead of Danica Bonello Spiteri who finished 20 seconds behind the winner.

Melita's Marica Micallef also showed remarkable improvement when finishing third in 59:41.

Upcoming junior James Aquilina, of Mosta AF Sign Studio, clocked 53:53 to place ahead of team-mate Daniel Borg (54:15) and Team Greens' Bernard Azzopardi (54:57).

Qormi's George Abela topped the Over 60 category while Twanny Fenech was the winner of the Over 50 section. The Masters class honours went to Michael Lia, of Mosta.

The next championship race is scheduled for May 23 at Mellieħa.