Ultra-endurance runner Zach Vella yesterday completed Day 5 of his six-day, 360-kilometre running challenge around Malta, marking the most physically demanding day of the journey so far.

He aims to complete his mission today by running 60km worth of loops around the Mgarr church - all in aid of YMCA, which works with people experiencing homelessness in Malta.

Day 5 tested Vella's body and mind. Beginning at sunrise en route to Golden Bay, the route included one of the toughest sections of the challenge to date, with a long uphill stretch towards Baħrija. Accumulated fatigue from consecutive days of running meant more frequent stops were needed, making it the most demanding day of the challenge so far.

Vella is also managing a tendon injury in his left ankle, which flared up during the run and resulted in significant swelling by the end of the day. His physiotherapy team from Stride Physiotherapy have been providing daily on-site and clinic-based treatment throughout the challenge, including electrotherapy, manual therapy and tailored exercise programmes to reduce inflammation and support recovery.

The team has also been closely involved in route planning to manage elevation and advising on footwear choices to minimise further strain. In the lead-up to the challenge, Stride supported Zach through sports science testing, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy and recovery work.

Despite the strain, Zach remained in good spirits, buoyed by strong support from fellow runners, crew, friends and family. Familiar faces returned, new runners joined along the way, and even international participants from Scotland and the Netherlands ran alongside him, underlining the growing community spirit around the challenge.

Several standout efforts marked the day. Daniel Micallef Borg returned after completing his own 60-kilometre run earlier in the challenge to run a further 30 kilometres with Zach. Taz Gambin completed the full 60 kilometres alongside him, while Andrew Calafato and Luke Borg ran close to marathon distances.

With 300 kilometres now completed, Zach today enters Day 6 - the final 60 kilometres - determined to finish what he set out to achieve. Today's plan is to loop around the Church of Mgarr, his home town.

All funds raised from the challenge are going towards supporting the work of YMCA Malta. Members of the public are encouraged to donate, join Zach along the route, or come out to the finish line to support and congratulate him on completing this extraordinary endurance challenge.

Runners of all abilities are encouraged to join him for any section of the route, while supporters can also contribute by donating or following the daily progress online.

Donations can be made online, and daily updates on routes and timings are being shared on social media throughout the challenge.

Follow Zach's journey on www.instagram.com/homebound.mt

Donations can be made here: https://funraise.org/give/YMCA-Malta/6e1d7c3b-fe95-460d-b3ad-55fefdef5046