Worthwhile AFM half-marathon
A record 380 donors turned up to give blood during four open days held prior to a half marathon organised by the Armed Forces of Malta First Regiment recently. The half-marathon was run by 78 AFM personnel and reservists, who covered 13.1 miles in two...
A record 380 donors turned up to give blood during four open days held prior to a half marathon organised by the Armed Forces of Malta First Regiment recently.
The half-marathon was run by 78 AFM personnel and reservists, who covered 13.1 miles in two hours, making it a great success.
It was a joint effort between Lt Jason Ebejer and the sterling support of various army personnel within the AFM (including some reservists) and high officials, namely Brigadier Carm Vassallo; Commanding Officer First Regiment Lt Col. Raphael Farrugia; Second-in-Command Major John Schembri; the AFM HQ and, last but not least, the civilians who came forward and donated blood.
Lt Ebejer originally joined the AFM as a reservist but later enrolled as a "regular" within the army. He was chosen as the best recruit and following this, became a rescuer within the Air Squadron.
However, he aimed to reach higher. He applied for officer cadet and came first, attended the Sandhurst Military Academy in the UK and was awarded the sword of honour.
He returned to Malta and came up with the idea of the half-marathon starting with a few army personnel. Later on, the marathon evolved to something bigger involving all First Regiment Companies - Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta - but with a difference.
The marathon's participants were asked to seek sponsorships. However, Lt Ebejer decided to involve the public, asking people to donate blood as a means of sponsorship.
It not only made the marathon a success but also created greater awareness of the importance of donating blood. Throughout the marathon, the participants ran in military file formation.
The First Regiment held four open days before the marathon. A mobile blood donation unit was made available at the AFM barracks in Hal Far.
About 380 people turned up to give blood, breaking the record of blood ever given in Malta over such a short time span. Blood donors were also given the chance to participate in events organised by the AFM during the open days.
These included abseiling down the tower (manned by "C" Company), which attracted both adults and children, an aerial ropeway and an assault course for children (manned by "D" Company).
A number of weapons were on display and visitors were also able to simulate target practice, firing blank ammunition (manned by "C" Company Reserve Forces).