Marathon donations: public urged to break record

The sum of Lm144,390 was collected up to 5 p.m. yesterday in 210 hours of the Malta Volleyball Marathon, in aid of Dar tal-Providenza and the Dominican Mission in Albania.

Since it kicked off on Monday, the marathon, organised by the Kerygma Movement, has received 63,700 visitors.

It comes to a close after 240 straight hours of volley ball today at 11 p.m.

The movement has appealed to the public to make the last effort to help surpass last year's record - Lm182,022.

Auxiliary Bishop Annetto Depasquale visited the event at the trade fair grounds in Naxxar yesterday, describing it as an annual feast of the generosity of the Maltese.

The parliamentary secretary in the Education Ministry, Jesmond Mugliett who visited the marathon, said it was the most organised and disciplined event on Malta's sports calendar.

Another of yesterday's highlights was the auction of the gear of Brazilian motorbike racer Alex Barros who could not attend the marathon as planned because he has been asked to try out his new bike for next Sunday's race.

The starting price of his racing gear is Lm500.

Other items on auction include football player Alessandro Del Piero's kit as well as the Manchester United ball, signed by the players.

The public may call on 50049553 for a donation of Lm3; 50049555 for a donation of Lm5; and 50049550 for a donation of Lm10.

Go mobile customers may send SMS donations. The three numbers are: 5552 (Lm2 donation); 5553 (Lm3 donation); 5555 (Lm5 donation).