Bonello braves strong wind to win in Pembroke

The Malta Mountain Bike Association on Sunday held the second round of the Cross Country National Points Series in Pembroke.

The race consisted of six laps for the elite riders and four laps for the sports and junior participants. The Pembroke course is dotted by a number of rocky sections as well as difficult off-road climbs which, coupled with the strong winds and cold temperatures last weekend, made racing really hard for the participants.

From the start, the riders set off at a frantic pace in order to reach the first technical downhill in the leading positions. Ramon Grech (Qormi KIA Corratec) took an early advantage in the elite race ahead of current cross country national champion Etienne Bonello (Team Greens BBB Parts).

Grech kept a high speed during the initial lap but Bonello came to the fore in a hilly section where he increased his pace to move past his rival.

The gusty winds made it hard for Bonello to retain the lead until the finish but he soldiered on to win in 56:23. Grech was second in 58:20.

In the other categories, Anthony Calleja was first in the masters' race and Jason Muscat won the sports division.

James Dimech (Mosta AF Sign Studio) was the top rider in the juniors race.

The third round of the National Points Series will be held on Sunday at Delimara.

Further information may be obtained by visiting www.maltamountainbike.com.