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Three friends, one bold challenge to raise funds for charity

The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Raises Funds for Hospice Malta and The Children in Need Foundation

On September 27, three lifelong friends – Daniel Abela, Douglas Barbaro Sant, and Joseph Casha – will take on an extraordinary journey of endurance, friendship, and purpose.

The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge will see them run, swim, and cycle across Malta and Gozo in a gruelling one-day event – all to raise vital funds for Hospice Malta and The Children in Need Foundation.

A Story of Friendship and Purpose

The trio share more than memories – they share a deep belief in giving back to their community. Inspired by the tireless, selfless work of the two charities, the trio decided to turn their passion for sport into a force for good.

“This is more than a race,” says co-founder Daniel Abela.

“We want to use our strength and friendship to bring hope, dignity, and opportunities to those who need them most. Extreme endurance challenges have a way of capturing public imagination –  the sheer physical demands, the mental resilience required, and the powerful stories that drive them.

“They inspire, unite communities, and remind us of the strength that comes from pushing beyond limits for a cause bigger than ourselves.”

The Challenge

The GasanMamo Point 2 Point is no ordinary charity fundraiser – it is a true test of endurance and perseverance.

Covering an 81km route from the northernmost tip of Gozo, San Dimitri, to the southernmost point of Malta, Birżebbuġa, the trio will push their limits across land and sea.

The challenge begins with a 15km run in Gozo, followed by a 6km open-water swim from Gozo to Malta, and concludes with a 60km coastal cycle to Birżebbuġa.

To mark the occasion, the finish will be followed by a symbolic ride to the Hospice Malta headquarters in Santa Venera, honouring the cause at the heart of this endeavour.

From the very start, the Point 2 Point Challenge has enjoyed the backing of GasanMamo Insurance. Managing Director Julian J. Mamo said it is a privilege for GasanMamo to support the event.

“This physical feat mirrors the strength, determination, and resilience shown daily by the patients, children, and families supported by the two beneficiary organisations.”

Two Causes, One Goal

Proceeds from the GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge will be shared equally between Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation – two organisations dedicated to delivering vital, specialist care and support in our community.

Hospice Malta provides free, holistic palliative care to more than 1,560 families each year, supporting patients with life-limiting illnesses such as cancer, ALS, multiple sclerosis, and end-stage organ diseases. Its services range from home care, symptom management, and equipment loans to emotional and spiritual support — all made possible through the generosity of donors.

“At Hospice Malta, our mission is to ensure that every person’s final moments are lived with dignity, compassion, and comfort,” Alexia Demicoli, Chief Relationship Officer at Hospice Malta, said.

“We continue to invest in care that honours not only life, but also the peace and respect every individual deserves, with all our services being offered free of charge.

“We are deeply grateful to individuals like Daniel, Douglas, and Joe, who not only raise vital funds but also help amplify awareness, so that every patient can experience these moments with the dignity they deserve.”  

The Children in Need Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Malta, with a strong focus on supporting the mental well-being of those in care homes.

To date, the Foundation has raised over €1 million, funding initiatives such as therapy, education, holidays for sick children, autism learning centres, and safe spaces for homeless youth – including the recently launched K.I.D.S. Haven project at YMCA.

The Target

With a fundraising goal of €163,828, the event is calling for both corporate and community support.

Corporate Contribution tiers begin at €1,500, but the team is also appealing to the wider public to donate, as every contribution, no matter the amount, brings them closer to making a real difference.

“When we cross that finish line, we’ll know it’s not about beating the clock — it’s about helping someone face tomorrow with hope,” Douglas Barbaro Sant said.

The same sentiment was shared by Joseph Casha.

“This challenge is tough, but nothing compared to what these children and patients go through. We’re honoured to do this for them,” he said.

Together, their words capture the true spirit of the Challenge — one driven not by competition, but by compassion and a desire to make a meaningful difference.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated back-up team is working to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. The organisers thanked Transport Malta and Steve Darmanin for his invaluable support in providing the event’s risk assessment, ensuring safety remains at the heart of this challenge.

Get Involved

The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge invites companies and individuals to be part of this journey of endurance and compassion. All funds raised will be split equally between Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation.

DONATIONS

Account Name: The Children in Need Fund

Branch Sort Code: 44093

IBAN: MT93MMEB44093000000009110404002

Donations can also be made via this link -https://www.childreninneed.org.mt/donate-now

For more information, contact: Daniel Abela – daniel@cin.mt,  Douglas Barbaro Sant – douglas@mimalta.com, Joseph Casha – jcash2605@gmail.com

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