The rough sea prevailing at St. Paul’s Bay on the day of the third race in the Birkirkara St. Joseph Open Sea Swimming Series, restricted the organisers to relocate this 2 kilometres event to the relatively calm waters of Qawra.

Dermot Galea (photo), recovered from his successful Ironman Triathlon in Switzerland earlier on this month and tarnished Keith Galea’s 100 per cent record in this Series by winning in 30 minutes 30 seconds. Isabelle Zarb sustained her momentum, winning her third race in a row.

Five swimmers, Dermot Galea, Keith Galea, Luke Bonnici, Keith Bartolo and Cliff Sultana, went immediately in front on this three-lap course. Midway through the race the Galeas opened a considerable gap, with Dermot putting Series leader Keith under enormous pressure.

In the final two buoys it was evident that Keith, notwithstanding his reaction to his rival’s attack, could not keep up the pace and had to settle for second place in 31 minutes 9 seconds. Luke Bonnici also managed to shrug off the challenge by distance swimmer Keith Bartolo, to finish third in 32 minutes 8 seconds.

In the females’ race, Isabelle Zarb continued to dominate this Series, winning her third consecutive race in 35 minutes 33 seconds. Michelle Wood confirmed that her second placing in the previous race was no flash in the pan.

At Qawra she confirmed her good form, once more finishing second in 36 minutes 37 seconds. Suzanne Farrugia finished third in 37 minutes 16 seconds, reaching shore 2 seconds ahead of Susan Farrugia.

The next race in this Series will be held on the 25 July at St. Thomas Bay in Marsascala starting at 6pm