If the 2019 Trustmoore Cross Country National Points Series kicked off with an inauspicious start for last year's Mountain Bike Champion Maurice Formosa (The Cyclist), the second race of the series held last Sunday in Mġarr certainly made up for Formosa's disappointment.
From start to finish Formosa was on fire, flying through one lap to another fighting off stiff competition from the likes of Patrick Scicluna, Mark Zammit and Brandon Sultana who were clearly fighting for the top three places from the very start. A flat tire on the fourth lap did nothing to thwart Formosa's spirit. A quick repair saw him continue en route and retaining the advantage he set from the word go. Behind him a fierce battle ensued by veteran Patrick Scicluna (FRM Team Sicilia) and a newer member of the mountain bike set, Gozitan Brandon Sultana (Gozo CC). A neck to neck fight with resulted in Sultana pipping Scicluna to second place. It was disappointment for Mark Zammit who was giving a fine showing but had to retire in the fourth lap due to technical issues. Notable mention also goes to Jason Vella (Agones SFC) registered two fourth places this season and has been making strong progress.
The Mġarr course is known for its rocky terrain set into the breath-taking backdrop of Ġnejna cliffs.
In the Sport Category, the evergreen Brian Magri took the honours, a few seconds apart from Dennis Dolci (Agones SFC), who was followed by Andrew Caruana. In the 40+ Category it was Paul Zarb (The Cyclist) who took top podium placing whilst in the Juniors Category, Clyve Chetcuti (Mosta AF Sign Studio CC) continued on his consistent streak to win the second race of the Series. A disappointing attendance from the Ladies segment saw Fiona Darmanin Tedesco compete solo, but nevertheless fought to produce a good time on the tricky route. The E-Bike category saw Robert Magro once again take top billing. A shorter race was organised for the Under 15 riders.
"We are always encouraged to see not only regular participation but also spectators who come religiously to follow our riders. Our races give the opportunity for people to enjoy some of Malta's best scenery, open fresh air and some exhilarating action. This also goes for the riders that might not make it to the podium but definitely put their heart and soul in every race." Pierre Zammit Endrich, President, Malta Mountain Bike Association.
The Trustmoore Cross Country National Points Series is sponsored by Trustmoore Corporate Services and supported by Magri Cycles, Maypole, Go & Fun, H20nly and Jimmy Vella Fruit and Vegetables.
The third race of the Trustmoore Cross Country National Points Series is scheduled to take place on Sunday 7th April in Selmun. Races start at 8am.
For further information please visit http://www.maltamountainbike.org.mt/2019.html or visit the Association's Facebook page.