Aaron Mifsud, Caroline Ciappara win first stage of 2023 Malta International Challenge Marathon
The first stage of the 2023 Malta International Challenge Marathon kicked off under an azure sky in the heart of Siggiewi, where athletes were ready to kick off their 3-day event – a full marathon spread over three days – starting with a 10 mile race.
Despite a forecast of possible inclement weather, the warm sun at the starting line gave hope of a warm and dry race, however that was not to be as within minutes from the start, the blue sky turned into grey clouds from which the first raindrops eventually turned into a heavy downpour which kept on until the very end of the race.
With a strong pool of runners on the start line, there was no prediction of a clear winner. Aaron Mifsud, Christian Micallef, Stephen Azzopardi and Matthew Xuereb where the first group to lead the way. Past Wied iż-Żurrieq Xuereb and Azzopardi edged slightly forward ahead of Mifsud and Micallef. In the last few metres to the first finish line Azzopardi seemed poised to take the first stage however was pipped by Mifsud who crossed the line two seconds ahead of him. In third place was Micallef. In the female category, Nadine de Wilde was also heading for a win but in the end ift was Caroline Ciappara who took the win for the day. In third place was Clara Attard.
The Second Stage of the Malta International Challenge Marathon will continue this morning in Marsascala, where athletes are to complete a 5km course. The Race starts at 1100hrs.
Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club would like to thank Siggiewi Local Council for their support in organising the first stage of the Challenge, as well as LESA and all the marshals assisting on the route