The revival of the Mtahleb hillclimb was the focal point of the local motorsports scene last Sunday, with a record number of competitors taking part in what was arguably, the most long awaited motorsports event of the past 15 years.
The revival of the grand daddy of Maltese hillclimb routes was thanks to the unceasing efforts of Charles Galea, Wayne Dingli, the Island Car Club and more importantly, Rabat local Council with the Mayor Sandro Craus leading the project, who through their perseverance managed to rehabilitate this road from years of neglect.
The record turnout of 79 cars, together with the presence of both the press as well as various political figures on the day, further underlined the importance that motorsports is gathering momentum in the national sporting scene.
Opening speeches by both the Mayor, Chris Agius MP as well as Parliamentary Secretary Clyde Puli expressed the government’s interest in developing Mtahleb into an international motorsports venue with the aim of attracting competitors from Italy and other neighbouring countries as a stimulus to the localities’ economy.
A speech in a similar vein was delivered by the leader of the opposition Joseph Muscat, an occasion where political difference were put aside for the love of sports. These dignitaries were then treated to a run up the course in a Subaru Rally Car.
Once the formalities were done with and the racing started it was obvious that all competitors had put in an extra effort for this event, with many having gone into considerable expense to further improve their chances for a win at this prestigious venue.
Right off the bat times were impressive, with group 6 times falling under the 60 second barrier and Joshua Anastasi leading the standings with an impressive time of 57.049, with Hubert Camilleri in second place and Jamie Sammut in third.
The subsequent runs saw drivers settle down and become more confident in the grip levels offered by the surface, as dust was blown away by the passing cars and rubber was laid down on the racing line. This resulted in improvements of up to two seconds in drivers’ times.
Once the majority of cars had passed the finish line, all eyes were on the previous leaders. Both were intent on pushing as hard as possible to gain the extra fraction of a second that might have made the difference between the first and second step of the podium.
It was however Steve Zammit Cutajar, who charged from fourth place, smashing the 57 second barrier with a time of 56.881 taking first place, with Anastasi and Camilleri second and third respectively.
Next race will be held at Ta Qali next Sunday.