The second round of the National Point Series championship took place last week in Mizieb. The six-lap race circuit posed a difficult challenge for the riders mainly because of its inclines, loose terrain and technical sections.

The same route will be used for a selection race later this season, ahead of the GSSE in Cyprus in June.

Jason Muscat darted off the starting line in the Elite Category race. He was closely monitored by David Galea, Ramon Grech (Qormi KIA), Gerard Said (Qormi KIA), Maurice Formosa (Melita Pedal Power) and Etienne Bonello (Corratec-Team Greens).

Bonello then made a decisive move to split up the group. He attacked in the final climb of the first lap to open up a comfortable lead. Muscat was a few metres behind with Galea, Formosa and Said next in line.

But, Bonello showed he had good legs as he hammered down on the pedals to increase his lead and went on to establish a new course record - 1:24:11.

His blistering pace would have qualified him for the GSSE had the distance been a lap longer.

Muscat was second in 1:27:25, another time inside the qualifying time bracket.

Galea was third in 1:30:04 ahead of Said while Formosa and Grech were unable to complete the distance.

A commendable effort was put in by junior rider James Dimech (Mosta Sign Studio). He is in contention for a place in Team Malta.

Dominic Cutajar (Mosta) flew the flag for Gozo as his times improve with every race. Marie Claire Aquilina (Team Greens) was the only woman in the race. She also had a fruitful outing, registering a qualifying pace. Harold Psaila (Team Greens) was first in the Sports Category followed by Alan Chetcuti and Mark Xerri.

The next race will be held in Delimara on Sunday.

Some Maltese riders are expected to visit Cyprus shortly to test the GSSE track. The Maltese will also compete in an international event on the same course.