Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year’s race attracted strong participation and large crowds, delivering a full day of high-speed, competitive racing.
With perfect spring weather and an electric atmosphere, the event has once again been widely declared a complete success.
Backed by title sponsor Würth, and expertly organised by Team Greens in collaboration with the Żebbuġ Local Council, Greens Supermarket and Transport Malta the race delivered non-stop action across all categories — from elite riders to youths — with challenging circuits winding through rural roads of the historic town.
The Men’s Elite Race was nothing short of electrifying, as record speeds were set on the technical circuit.
The peloton was aggressive from the gun, with several early attacks keeping the pace relentless.
The decisive moment came with five laps to go, when Luke Borg of Team Nuova Avir broke away from the peloton.
He was swiftly chased down by Aidan Buttigieg Team Polti Visit Malta, with Jacob Schembri of Bike It Up Racing joining the move.
The trio extended their advantage over the chasing group and battled it out to the finish, with Buttigieg claiming his first win of the season, followed by Schembri and Borg.
The Masters Race was equally fast-paced and fiercely contested, with Team Greens’ Arek Kawalec taking top honours.
He was followed by last year’s race winner and teammate Gesred Borg, and Liran Ben Ari of The Cyclist/Agones CC.
In-form Diana Muscat delivered another outstanding performance in the women’s race, riding shoulder to shoulder with Krista Kuusijarvi for much of the event.
However, Muscat’s experience and strong form proved decisive in the closing stages, as she surged ahead in the final metres to win by nine seconds – marking her second consecutive victory. Lindsey Pirotta of Team Bike It Up completed the podium in third place.
Results in the other categories saw Ryan Gatt take victory in the Junior race, followed by Andrei Cassone, both representing The Cyclist/Agones CC.
David Cushing of BIU Racing secured first place in the 50+ category.
Youth riders were also part of the action, with emerging talents showing grit and determination throughout the circuit.
Żebbuġ Mayor Steve Zammit Lupi praised the continued success of the event’s second edition, highlighting its growth and positive impact on the community.
“Following the success of last year’s inaugural race, this second edition has exceeded expectations. It’s encouraging to see the event grow in both participation and quality, while continuing to bring the community together and showcase Żebbuġ as a hub for sporting activity,” he said.
Co-organiser and Team Greens Secretary Etienne Bonello also underlined the importance of the strong partnership behind the event.
“This second editioin is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. Working hand in hand with the Żebbuġ Local Council has allowed us to elevate the event to a higher standard, and we are proud of the result,” he said.
“The response from riders, teams, and spectators has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to building on this success in the years to come.”
With high-level competition, seamless organisation, and a strong sense of community, the Żebbuġ Cycling Race continues to establish itself as a cornerstone of Malta’s cycling calendar.
OTHER RESULTS
U16 Female: Nina Debono Curmi (D Sports lab), Ka7e Anne Vella Wood (Team Greens), Elisa Vella (Mosta CC)
U16 Male: Gobin Gao (BIU Racing), Neil Cassar (Team Greens), Ethan Grech (Team Greens)
U14 Female: Mickaya Fava (Shamrock Stars), Kim Micallef Cann (St Patrick’s)
U14 Male: Ethan Cumbo (Team Greens), Kurt Grech (Mosta CC), Ayden Vella (D Sports Lab) U12 Female: Amy Micallef Cann
U12 Male: Kruiven Farrugia (BIU Racing), Zachary Vella (Mosta CC), Raphael Buhagiar (Mosta CC).
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