Over 400 athletes participated in the 40th edition of the Gozo Half Marathon. This year’s half marathon was won by first-time Italian participant Giacomo Fontanel, who clocked in at 01:20.58 followed closely by Drew Lang who crossed the finished line at 01:21.12. Gozitan Stefan Azzopardi came in third at 01:24.46.
The first lady that crossed the half marathon finish line was Jacqueline Booker at 01:39.28. Following her in second place was Karen Amato (01:41.13) and in third place Sandra Schembri (01:42.22).
Gozitan Charlton Debono completed the 8 mile race in 47.19. Matthew Scicluna was second in at 47.47 while Alexander Schembri was third in at 49.13. Charles Cilia currently holds the record time for both 13.1mi (2006, 1:11.40) and 8mi races (2008, 43.14). Roberta Schembri finished first female in the 8 mile race at 51.07 followed by Tara Abdilla (54.23) and Francesca Arrigo (59.09).
Apart from the half marathon and the 8 mile, the event also included a 13.1 mile mountain bike race, a 4km, 2km and 2km Fun Run.
The 13.1 MTB was won again for the second time in a row by Kevin Muscat who finished the race in 40:06, followed by Brandon Sultana (43:30) and Ryan Sultana (47:21).
Participants have expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the event, with both seasoned athletes and enthusiasts already planning to participate next year. Next year’s event will be taking place on Sunday 24th April 2016.
The Gozo Half Marathon Organising Committee would like to thank its main sponsors – Xaghra Local Council, Ministry for Gozo, Malta Tourism Authority, San Michel, Gatorade, Fitness and Raysun.