Malta International Challenge Marathon

The first Malta International Challenge Marathon took place in 1991

For nearly three decades, the Malta International Challenge Marathon, has been Malta’s only multi-day race, a staple event on the Maltese athletic calendar, attracting locals and foreigners alike. Spread over a period of three consecutive days, athletes cover a distance which measures exactly 42.195km

This race has attracted well known local athletes such as Keith Galea, Matthew Xuereb, Jonathan Balzan, Brian Magri, Andrew Grech, Charlton Debono, Joe Pace, Joelle Cortis, Josann Attard Pulis, Carol Walsh and Carmen Hili as well as multiple winner David Mansbridge from England to mention a few.

The introduction of relay teams in 2014 saw a new influx of runners who wanted to be part of the buzz this event generates but who do not necessarily want or have the ‘miles’ in their legs to undertake the whole distance.

In 2015, Birkirkara St. Joseph Sports Club took over the race bringing years of experience in race organisation to this iconic event. The Club’s experience has been pivotal to making this event becoming even more prominent on the map of world marathon running.

Over the years the race has welcomed over 5,000 runners on the starting line, representing over 27 countries from across all continents.

The Covid-19 pandemic forced the 2020 and 2021 to be postponed but there is renewed optimism for the race to take place in 2022

The Malta International Challenge Marathon is held under the auspices of Athletics Malta, following World Athletics rules and is an AIMS (Association of International Marathon and Distance Races) certified race.

Malta International Challenge Marathon Route

STAGE 1 – Siggiewi | 1030hrs

The first stage covers a 10 mile distance (16.097 km) which starts and finishes in the centre of the quaint village of Siggiewi. The route passes through village cores, coastal roads and rural areas.

There will be water stations at 5 km, 10 km, and finish.

STAGE 2 – Marsascala | 1100hrs

The southern seaside town of Marsascala plays host to the second stage of the “Challenge”. The 5k Route goes along a large part of the coastal road of the town before heading towards the urban part of the course.

A Water station will be available at the finish.

STAGE 3 – St. Paul’s Bay | 0800hrs

The longest part of the ‘Challenge’ starts in St. Paul’s Bay and finishes in Qawra. A mix of coastal and rural views along the 21km course, the route is dotted with some challenging hills but the views make the effort worth it.

Water stations available at 5km, 10km, 15km and at the finish line.