The 19th Malta international Challenge marathon – spread over three days – continued yesterday with the second stage at Birzebbuga, over six kilometres.

Maltese runners dominated both the men's and women's categories.

In the men's event, Jonathan Balzan of St Patrick's was first in 19.56 minutes. Second was Brian Magri of Pembroke Athleta while Joseph Saliba of Zurrieq Wolves, was third. The three runners hold the same positions overall after the opening two days of the event.

In the Women's event, Marisa Muscat was first in 25.04 minutes, followed by Caroline Ciappara and Pauline Vella. As in the men's event, the same three runners lead their category overall after the second day.

The challenge comes to an end this morning at Valletta with the runners starting from near Wignacourt Tower in St Paul's Bay at 7am.