A new initiative in aid of The Malta Community Chest Fund, titled L-Istrina Palace Run, will bring together athletes from across Malta and Gozo for a marathon that, over a four-year period, will incorporate the three Presidential palaces, a statement by the President's Office read.

The first segment of this marathon, The 10km L-Istrina Palace Run, will take place on Sunday, June 15, and will start from Verdala Palace and finish at San Anton Palace. 

"At the end of each edition, medals will be distributed that, when combined, form a complete set-serving as a historic keepsake symbolizing unity, perseverance, and collective impact, and will bear witness to the generosity of each and every one of them. In addition, the top three athletes in each category will receive prizes. This initiative, conceived by Major Richard Vassallo, also aims to celebrate Malta's cultural heritage while raising important funds for the Malta Community Chest Fund."

During a press conference held at San Anton Palace, President Myriam Spiteri Debono described this new initiative as part of a series of events intended to support all those who rely on the Malta Community Chest Fund.

Major Richard Vassallo explained that there has long been a need for a marathon specifically dedicated to athletes-complementing, but remaining separate from, the traditional Walk with the President.

He also noted that the event helps to further promote a culture of physical activity among the Maltese and Gozitans. 

Marathon veteran Joseph Micallef, who also addressed the press conference, and said that special care was taken to ensure the event meets the highest standards, with part of the route overlapping with sections of the Malta Marathon.  

The route has been designed to be suitable not only for athletes but also for casual runners and individuals who want to experience the event while making a real difference in the lives of those supported by the Malta Community Chest Fund.  

Applications for participation are now open at maltamarathon.com.

The marathon is supported by main sponsor Eurosport and the Fund for Social Causes.