The 25th Edition of the International Tour of Malta, which is being sponsored by The Cyclist, will take place between the 11th and 14th April 2019.  This cycling will be welcoming a record of nearly70 foreign cyclists. An increase in female participation has been registered  whilst Maltese participation will be as strong as usual.

This was announced by Mr. John Zammit, President of the Malta Cycling Federation, at a press conference held earlier on this afternoon in the presence of cyclists, officials and members of the media. 

Mr. Zammit explained that riders will be competing in the three main categories – Elite, Ladies and Masters. This year the Tour saw the introduction of the Juniors category aimed towards giving young riders an international experience on home ground. Despite a disappointing take up, Zammit explained that a slightly different approach will be taken this year but expressed his confidence that this category will grow in future editions.

Zammit went on to explain the logistics of the Tour. The Tour will be spread over a period of four days. All races will start at 10am. The first stage will be an Individual Time Trial on the Mtarfa By Pass for a total distance of 12km.  The Second Stage will be a 83.3km race on the St. Paul’s By Bypass, the third stage will be a 60km course on the Żebbuġ By Pass, whilst the last stage will be the gruelling 88km race on the San Martin circuit.  

Also present for the Press Conference was Mrs. Caroline Schiavone, representing The Cyclist.  Mrs. Schiavone expressed The Cyclist’s satisfaction at the opportunity to support the Tour, which is Malta’s only local cycling platform that enables local riders to compete at international levels. 

Mr. Zammit concluded the press conference by wishing the best of luck to all involved and expressed his gratitude towards the local authorities namely Sport Malta, the Maltese Olympic Committee, The Cyclist, Mtarfa, St. Paul’s Bay, Żebbug and Mġarr Local Councils, the Malta Police Force, local Wardens,  ARRTS Timing System and the Palazzin Hotel for their support throughout. 

The organisation team also appealed to the general public for their co-operation throughout the event especially since road closures, to ensure safety of the cyclists, will be occurring during the race.

For further information please visit www.tourtamalta.com