The 19th Express Trailers Żurrieq Half Marathon, 10km run and 10km walk, on Sunday, have attracted over 1,000 local and foreign applicants, confirming the races among the top athletics events on the islands.
“This is a clear example of how Local Councils can collaborate with organisations to support and contribute towards the growth of events that also strengthens a locality’s identity,” Żurrieq councillor Dino Bonnici said in a media conference.
“In fact, the southern village of Żurrieq, usually known by tourists for its sea and the Blue Grotto, has now added this established sports event in its annual calendar.
“We are proud of the important role we’re playing in seeing the half marathon grow since its inception 19 years ago.
“Indeed, up to four years ago, we used to have a modest 130 athletes on the start line.”
Whilst confirming the Local Council’s commitment to keep supporting events that promote a healthier lifestyle among the residents, Bonnici took the opportunity to thank the Żurrieq Wolves Athletics Club for the sterling work done in the previous years and the Malta Marathon Organising Committee and Express Trailers whose support has taken the races up to another level.
Joe Micallef, organiser of the Żurrieq Half Marathon, noted how over the past few years there was an important shift in the pattern of applications.
“One of the most important aspects that we have been noticing in our organised road running events is that many people start participating in walks and then they feel easily encouraged to take up running,” he explained.
“In fact, the number of people taking part in the 10km walk is gradually decreasing and those applying for the run are increasing significantly, a trend being noticed across most of our races.
“This is very positive because it means that more people are being encouraged to become more active.”
Franco Azzopardi, chairman and CEO of Express Trailers, highlighted the company’s role in seeing the races flourish.
“We have always believed in the importance of sports as a holistic way of self-development,” he said.
“At Express Trailers we encourage our own people to practise sport and we do have a number of employees who are successful members of sports clubs.
“Besides supporting our employees’ involvement in sport, however, we also look to involve ourselves in prominent activities, such as this half marathon and 10km run and walk.”
Clifton Caruana, representing Żurrieq Wolves AC, thanked the Local Council for its constant support and his fellow club members who dedicate most of their time to produce another challenging race.
“Special mention goes to all our sponsors including Mazini Auto-parts and Larry Food Store who have also been there since this race’s early days,” he said.
“I would also like to thank Malta Marathon Organising Committee and Express Trailers for their constant backing. Today, we are proud to see our races again attracting over 1,000 athletes.”