The Malta Canoe Federation recently organised 150 metre sprint races as part of the Senglea Marittime festival.
During the event, athletes from all disciplines, including sea kayaking, raced head to head starting from the Macina and ending at one of the marina’s many pontoons 150m out. Two rounds where held following which athletes were ranked according to their overall position and raced in either Final A or Final B.
Round one saw Simon Gauci and Chris Borg Costanzi going head to head with the latter taking first place. Next up was Damian Schembri who beat Robert Mercieca to the finish. Julian Cassar pushed to the lead ahead of Frans Debono.
The final two races saw Silvio Farrugia finish ahead of Renato Brincat and Mark Darmanin ahead of Jackie Brincat.
The second round saw Chris Borg Costanzi finish first ahead of Julian Cassar and Damian Schembri securing him a place in final A.
Robert Mercieca improved his performance placing first against Silvio Farrugia and Mark while Simon Gauci joined Chris in the A final after placing first ahead of Renato Brincat, Frans Debono and Jackie Brincat.
The A final saw a showdown between Chris and Simon where the amicable rivalry as evident. Both athletes gave it as good as they got with Chris merely edging ahead placing first with Simon finishing in a close second.
The B final saw Julian Cassar take the lead in a tough race against Damian Schembri who finished second and Robert Mercieca who finished third.
Once the races were over, a short sea kayaking talk was held whereby participants were given a refresher on basic safety techniques to keep in mind when paddling in the open sea.
It includes equipment which is necessary when paddling outside the marina/harbour as well as reminders to keep in mind especially over the summer months.
This runs in line with the One Star Safety courses organised by the Malta Sea Kayak Club. Those interested in attending a course or starting canoeing may contact the Malta Canoe Federation by sending an email to [email protected]