Mellieħa AC’s Dillon Cassar confirmed his strength on the shorter road distances, taking
home the National Championship on the 5k distance, completing a 5k-10k double for
the second season in succession. His victory in Ħal Far was even more impressive
considering that despite the gale force winds reaching Force 7, he lowered the national
record over the distance to 14:54.
Luke Micallef (Pembroke AC) and Simon Spiteri (St. Patrick’s AC) completed the podium
with a time of 15:20 and 16:05 respectively. David Borg (Athletix AC) claimed top
honours among the Under 23s in a time of 16:13, returning to action after a few weeks
on the sidelines. Julian Zarb (La Salle) won the U20 and U18 categories.
Roberta Schembri (Evolve EC) claimed the women’s 5k title in 17:38, closely followed by
Joelle Cortis 17:47. Kyla Farrugia (St. Patrick’s AC)’s emergence continued to impress,
claiming victory in the Under 20 and Under 23 titles in a record time of 19:03.
The 5k Championship race also served as the third leg of the National Road Running
Series. With different podia placings in the first three races, the final 5k in Marsascala on
the 26h March will be decisive for assigning the respective titles both on individual as
well at club levels.
European Throwing Cup – Leira, Portugal
Over the weekend, three of Malta’s top throwers had the opportunity of competing
against Europe’s best at the European Throwing Cup in Leira, Portugal. Bradley Farrugia
and Luke Micallef featured in the senior discus competitions, throwing 50.79m and
49.71m respectively. Mireya Cassar, took part in the Under 23 hammer throw
competition, reaching a 51.80m distance. This participation, supported by Sport Malta,
the Malta Olympic Committee and the NDSF will continue to strengthen these athletes’
approach towards the Games of the Small States of Europe to be held in Malta later this
year.
