The second race in the Birkirkara St. Joseph Open Sea Swimming Series was held at Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga on a three lap course for a distance of 2 kilometres. Series leaders Keith Galea and Isabelle Zarb extended their overall lead, and although still at an early stage, they appear to be firm favourites to retain the titles they have won last year.

Keith Galea was unchallenged throughout the whole race to finish in 32 minutes 10 seconds. His Birkirkara St. Joseph team-mate Keith Bartolo clocked 33 minutes 30 seconds in second place. The race for third place was a very close one. The ever improving Luke Bonnici managed to hit the finish ahead of Cliff Sultana in the final few metres. Bonnici’s time was 35 minutes 17 seconds, two seconds better than Sultana’s.

In the females’ race, champion Isabelle Zarb was not in her best form although she won in 37 minutes 19 seconds.

Second placed Michelle Wood considerably improved her performance on the first race to finish second in 37 minutes 26 seconds. Although threatened by Donatelle Callus, Suzanne Farrugia maintained a comfortable lead to finish third in 39 minutes 57 seconds, 19 seconds ahead of her rival.

The third race in this Series will be held on the 11th July at Bugibba, starting at 6.30pm. Registration will be accepted up to 30 minutes before the start.