Winning athletes and officials of the 45 edition of the national Sporting contests, lead by Charles Camenzuli, president of the Sportswriters Association, yesterday paid a courtesy visit to the President of Malta, His Excellency Edward Fenech Adami.

After presenting the President with a memento of this year’s contest, Charles Camenzuli emphasised his satisfaction that these contests have once again recognised the sporting achievements throughout 2005.

Benny Pace’s idea to organise this contest for the first time in 1960, grew into what is now considered to be the athletes’ highest awards, after hard work from the Sportswriters Association through all these past years.

The President of Malta, while congratulating all the winners, stressed the importance of sport in society, especially the message passed on to the sporting public and youngsters through the athletes’ dedication and participation.

Shooter William Chetcuti was once again the protagonist this year, winner of the Sportsman of the Year award for a record fourth time running.

Sportswoman of the year,swimmer Angela Galea won this award for the second consecutive year while waterpolo coach Peter Balzan won the Official of the Year award and the Snooker team, winners of the European Championships during 2005 were voted the team of the year in the contest.

Fifteen-year old tennis player Matthew Asciak, won the young athlete award for the under 17 category, winning the Malta national championship during 2005.