Dillon Cassar on top in Birkirkara St Joseph SC’s Fleur-de-Lys Road Race

Tommy Wallbank wins 5k race

Dillon Cassar emerged as the undisputed winner at the Eurosport BSJ Fleur-de-Lys Road Race, hosted by Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club on Republic Day.

The event garnered a substantial turnout, featuring not only Malta’s top athletes but also a diverse mix of regular participants and newcomers.

Competitors had the choice of entering either the 10k or 5km race, with the former entailing two loops of the course.

This long-standing competition, organised by the club for several decades, marked the culmination of its busy running calendar before a brief hiatus in anticipation of the 2024 season.

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In the fiercely contested 10k race, Dillon Cassar seized an early lead, maintaining a comfortable distance ahead of Christian Micallef and Mario Grech.

Micallef and Grech engaged in a neck-and-neck battle for most of the race, with the former ultimately securing second place in the final metres.

In the women’s category, Roberta Schembri demonstrated a return to fine form, securing a comfortable victory over Denise Borda and Veronika Kersyte.

The 5km race saw Tommy Wallbank emerging victorious, showcasing consistent performances.

Wallbank finished ahead of veteran Gerald Grech, who claimed second place, and Malcolm Paul Vella, who finished third.

The female podium featured Michelle Dimech, Hayley Acreman, and Charla Pia Vella.

Trophies and prizes were presented to the winners at the race’s conclusion from Birkirkara St Joseph SC president, Raymond Grech, and Anthony Chircop, president of the Eastern Regional Council, which supported the event through its 2023 European Region of Sports initiative as well as Eurosport representative Brian Cremona.

Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club secretary general, Euchar Camilleri, reflected on the event, stating: “This event brings to a close a very busy year for the club. Our multisport calendar – athletics, cycling, football, swimming, and triathlon – attracts hundreds of athletes, and we do our utmost to provide the best racing experience to all.

“The calendar for 2024 is now complete and will be launched shortly as we gear up for another busy year.”

The club expressed gratitude to Eurosport Malta, Birkirkara Local Council, LESA, as well as race officials and volunteers who contributed to the success of the day.