As twilight descended on Birzebbugia valley, the narrow winding trails came alive with the glow from over fifty head torches, eye-catching outfits and fluorescent running gear.
The second race of the, hosted by Agones SFC and supported by Eurosport Malta and Merrell, took place on a Friday night in Birzebbugia. The race, the only one of its kind in Malta, was well attended despite being an evening run.
The 6.3km route proved to be extra challenging. Cold weather coupled with muddy and slippery terrain from the incessant rain experienced throughout the week. The route consisted of a mix of country roads, trails and a bit of tarmaced roads.
Ryan Farrugia
In the Ladies race, there were no changes on the podium from the previous place, with Danica Bonello Spiteri leading the way, followed by Tara Abdilla and Dzintra Grech. A mere three seconds separated Bonello Spiteri and Abdilla echoing their efforts in the previous race. Third placed Grech crossed the finish line around four minutes later. All three kept their same placings on the podium and in the overall League Classification.
In the Males' Race, Jonathan Ebejer, winner of the first race had to contend with Ryan Farrugia's experience. Farrugia pipped Ebejer to the first place by approximately fifteen seconds. Third Placed was Alan Curmi. Both Farrugia and Curmi were making their debut in this year's League. Although narrowly missing on the top spot Ebejer is still on the top spot in the overall leaderboard.
The evening concluded with a Prize Giving evening at Al Fresco Pizzeria, where participants enjoyed well deserved pizzas and hot beverages. Eurosport Malta also presented monetary vouchers to all those taking part.
The third race of the Eurosport Trail Running League will be a 10km Loop in Munxar, limits of Marsascala. Further information can be obtained on www.agones-sfc.eu.