The fourth traditional autumn road race at Ricasoli last weekend, saw Joelle Cortis setting a new course record in the Under 17 race. The Pembroke girl completed 4.7km in 17.39 minutes.

This year there was a slight decrease in the number of participants in all categories notwithstanding the 150-strong entry list.

Gerald Grech overcame the windy conditions to notch his second win in MAAA races this season with a time of 14 minutes 16 seconds. Grech thus made it a double of successes in Ricasoli after emerging top from last year's race.

The Libertas runner made a typically fast start with Mark Herrera, of Pembroke, snapping at his heels. But Grech managed to keep his rivals in his trail to cross the finish line with a comfortable 30-metre lead.

Robert Grech (Allcomers), another athlete who favours the shorter distances, was the second member of the Grech family to earn a place on the podium after placing third. Gerald's younger brother edged out course record holder and winner of the first two editions Alex Busuttil, still struggling to find his best form this season.

In the ladies' race, Doreen Vella (Zurrieq Wolves) had the better of Stephanie Magri (Pembroke) and Daniela Casha (Ladies Running Club).

Antoine Borg, in the Savio College colours, won the juniors' race. He was followed in by St Patrick's Clive Cachia. Karl Spiteri of Savio College was third.

The boys' intermediate propelled yet another club among the winners as Luke Cassar, for St Aloysius College, placed first in 15.55. Carl Zammit (St Patrick's) and Ian Ellul (Zurrieq Wolves) were second and third respectively.

The second rounds of the aggregate meetings for youths and cadets were also held in Ricasoli.

Category newcomers, James Parnis and Marouska Cutajar, both Pembroke members, maintained their winning streak, topping the 3.3K race for youths.

The honours in the cadets' class went to Joseph Zammit, of Starmax. Caroline Galea (La Salle Tristar) continued to shine with yet another fine performance, winning a fiercely contested race in the girls' section.

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