This year’s edition of the Nestlé Fitness Malta International Challenge will be held between 25 and 27 November.
As in previous years the number of participants has been limited to 150 male and female runners out of whom 60 will be coming from 12 different countries namely Australia, Austria, England, Germany, Guernsey, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Scotland, Sweden, and Wales and 110 from Malta.
This event should continue to put Malta on the map of the world marathon running. Furthermore this year and for another two years the organiser, Barry Whitmore will be introducing a new title sponsor for this marathon, namely world renowned brand, Nestle Fitness.
This was announced by Barry Whitmore, founder and race director of the Malta International Challenge Marathon during a media conference held at Nestlé Malta premises.
The press conference was also addressed by Alfred Borg, Corporate Communications Manager Nestlé Malta who said that “we are supporting the marathon challenge because we feel it is in line with Nestlé’ Malta’s policy which is aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle initiatives taking place in the community where we operate.
Whitmore added that “as is traditional with this marathon, the challenge will be spread over three days. Day one will consist of race covering a total distance of 11.195km starting from Mdina Gardens and finishing at Rabat. Day two will cover a shorter distance of 6km starting at St, George’s Bay in Birzebbuga and finishing in front of Birzebbuga Parish Church. The third and final race will consist of a 25km run starting at St. Paul’s Bay (Wignacourt Tower) and finishing at Freedom Square in Valletta.
“This year we are expecting strong competition given the confirmed participation of four previous winners namely Jonathan Balzan, Carmen Hili and Marisa Muscat from Malta and David Mansbridge from England. Also participating in this year’s marathon are Maltese personalities Nathan Farrugia, who recently completed a world record challenge of running 27 marathons in 27 different countries in 27 days and Nicky Farrugia, who is renowned for his participation in over 15 ironmen triathlons and his world record swim from Malta to Sicily,” said Whitemore.
The oldest male runner is 75 year old Angus Nicholson from Scotland and the oldest female runner is 67 year old Grietje Waalkes from Holland. This year there will also be ten pairs, male and female runners who live in the same address, participating together.”
In conclusion Whitmore also announced that the marathon will be dedicated to one of Malta’s most dedicated athletes, the late John Walsh and his wife Carol who has won the challenge four times.
Whitmore thanked the sponsors primarily Nestlé Fitness for their commitment and support towards the organisation of this event as well as the Police Traffic Division, the local councils, St. John’s Ambulance Brigade, the Scout Movement and many helpers.