Dillon Cassar claims national record on road to 5k Championship victory

Mellieħa AC’s Dillon Cassar confirmed his strength on the shorter road distances, taking home the National Championship on the 5k distance, completing a 5k-10k double for the second season in succession.

His victory in Ħal Far was even more impressive considering that despite the gale force winds reaching Force 7, he lowered the national record over the distance to 14:54 minutes.

Luke Micallef (Pembroke AC) placed second in 15:20 while Simon Spiteri (St Patrick’s AC) completed the podium with a time of 16:05.

David Borg (Athletix AC) claimed top honours among the Under 23s in a time of 16:13 minutes, returning to action after a few weeks on the sidelines.

Julian Zarb (La Salle) placed first in the U-20 and U-18 categories.

Roberta Schembri (Evolve EC) claimed the women’s 5k title in 17:38, closely followed by Joelle Cortis (17:47).

Kyla Farrugia (St. Patrick’s AC)’s emergence continued to impress, claiming victory in the Under 20 and Under 23 titles in a record time of 19:03.

The 5k Championship race also served as the third leg of the National Road Running Series.

With different podium placings in the first three races, the final 5k in Marsascala on March 26 will be decisive for assigning the respective titles both on individual as well at club levels.

European Throwing Cup

Over the weekend, three of Malta’s top throwers had the opportunity of competing against Europe’s best at the European Throwing Cup in Leira, Portugal.

Bradley Farrugia and Luke Micallef featured in the senior discus competitions, throwing 50.79m and 49.71m respectively.

Mireya Cassar, took part in the Under 23 hammer throw competition, reaching a 51.80m distance.

In a statement, Athletics Malta said that this participation, supported by Sport Malta, the Maltese Olympic Committee and the National Development and Social Fund, will continue to strengthen these athletes’ approach towards the Games of the Small States of Europe to be held in Malta later this year.