The start of the 5km Race and Walk
Sunday 11 March marked the 7th edition of the BRND WGN & University Ring Road Races and once again the event proved to be one for the books with almost 400 participants gathering at the University athletics track. For the third year running, the event has seen a collaboration between BRND WGN and race organizers, Malta University Holding Company – as title sponsors, to help the races reach new heights.
What makes this event so special, apart from providing an opportunity for University students and staff to integrate with the rest of the community, is the fact that half the proceeds are donated to Hospice Malta. “We’re extremely proud to be supporting this well organised event both for the sports and fun aspects but more so, to be of support to those who support others.” Said CEO and founder of BRND WGN, Peter-Jan Grech
The event kicked off with a 5km Race & Walk and with over 200 starters, live entertainment courtesy of Dj Mykill as well as being one of the warmest days of the year so far – spirits were sky high! This race saw some of Malta’s top distance runners compete head to head along the University Ring Road. Fresh from his recent success in the Malta Half Marathon, Charlton Debono went on to win the 5km, closely followed by Mellieha A.C. runners Andrew Grech and Philip Vella who came home in second and third place respectively. Josann Attard Pulis, one of Malta’s top female marathon runners, went on to take first place in the women’s section. Tara Abdilla and Carmen Vella, both no strangers to the local running scene, took second and third place respectively.
The 2km race was won by Duressa Mamma Kadu in a new course record of 6:08. Starmax team mate, Nicole Gatt emerged victorious in the female sector again establishing a new course record of 7:33. This year a change in route, saw the 5km relay, always a favourite amongst spectators and competitors alike, reach new heights. 22 team took to the starting line of the University Running and despite being a close faught battle for podiums, it was Team Altaro who took the win. An 800m fun run was also organized which proved to be a winner amongst young children; making it an ideal Sunday morning out for families.
Even though there can only be one winner, the event is suited to cater for all and what with the live entertainment, food and beverage stalls, face painting and bouncy castle, everyone really seemed to have a blast! Hannah Pace, one of the members of the organizing team behind the races was just as enthusiastic about how things panned out. “This is my third year helping with the coordination of The BRND WGN & University Ring Road Races and it has become an event extremely close to my heart. Each year we strive to work harder to make the event more fun for all and above all to help raise more funds for hospice. It is always great watching things come together after months of hard work. I am extremely grateful for the massive external support we receive yearly and in fact I would say that the actual day’s success depends very much on a combined effort between the organising team, sponsors, other supporters and participants alike. The 7th edition has definitely been our biggest and most successful event yet and we are already looking forward to planning our next edition!”