The Mtaħleb hillclimb was the focal point of the local motor sport scene last Sunday, with a record number of competitors taking part in what was arguably the most long-awaited motor sport event of the past 15 years.

The revival of the hillclimb was thanks to the efforts of individuals Charles Galea and Wayne Dingli, the Island Car Club and, more important, the Rabat Local Council, who through their perseverance managed to rehabilitate this circuit from years of neglect.

The record turnout of 79 cars further underlined the importance that motor sport is garnering in the national sporting scene.

Once all formalities were over and the racing started, it was pretty obvious that all competitors had put in an extra effort for this event, with many having gone into considerable expenses to further improve their chances for a win at this prestigious venue.

Early runs were impressive, with Group 6 times falling under the 60-second barrier and Joshua Anastasi leading the provisional standings with a significant 57.049.

Hubert Camilleri was second and Jamie Sammut third.

The subsequent runs saw drivers settle down and become more confident in the grip levels offered by the surface. This resulted in improvements of up to two seconds in most times.

Once the majority of cars had passed the finish line, all eyes were on the main contenders. All were intent on pushing as hard as possible to gain the extra fraction of a second that might make the difference between the first and second step of the podium.

In the end, however, it was Steve Zammit Cutajar who charged from fourth place, smashing the 57-second wall to outsmart the rest of the field.

His time was 56.881. Anastasi slipped to second and Camilleri third.

The next race will be held at Ta’ Qali on Sunday.