Pembroke races for March 31

The athletics section of the Pembroke Athleta Sports Club will hold their annual series of races in the area of their headquarters on March 31.

Details of this year's races, now in their 16th edition, were given during a news conference earlier this week. Athletics section president Victor Camilleri confirmed that leading runners will be taking part in the Pembroke races, including the winners of last year's 10km event - Carol Walsh and Brian Magri.

"Keen competition is guaranteed," Camilleri said in a statement.

"Walsh and Magri will be there, and with strong contenders like Drew Lang, Lisa Marie Bezzina and Joelle Cortis plus others who performed so well in the Malta Marathon and Half Marathon last month, already registered for the 10km race, we know that this year's edition will be another success."

Camilleri said the entry list for the Fun Run, an event open to all, particularly children, is promising to surpass last year's 900-mark.

"At this event, which for safety reasons will again be divided into categories, children can run or walk a distance of 1,200m in groups according to their year of birth, as has been the custom in recent years," Camilleri added.

"We're expecting another bumper entry list. I take this opportunity to thank the sponsors and all those who are contributing towards the organisation of this year's Races."

Walsh, Malta's 'athletics queen', was also present for the 2010 Pembroke Races launch.

She spoke about her experiences, with special focus on the Pembroke race, and her meticulous preparations to minimise injuries.

While expressing hope that she stays fit in order to contest and win the race on March 31, Walsh urged her peers not to despair and give up when faced with difficulties in their careers.

"There is something for everyone in these races," she said.

"No race is easy but the physical preparation alone is already a reward for those taking part. Also, the feelgood factor and a healthier lifestyle are guaranteed."

One may collect an application form from the club, the Pembroke and Swieqi Local Council offices or by sending an e-mail to pembrokeathleta@gmail.com.