The 2019 Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 28th April and is amazingly now in it’s 44th year. Today, this race owns the proud title of being the first ever road race event held in Malta.   Not only that, but it’s the only road race throughout the islands to be awarded 3 star certification by European Athletics.

When the competition first began, way back on 6th February 1977 just 35 runners took part; fast forward to 2018, where last year 256 runners competed in this 21.1 km sporting challenge.  In 2019, for the first time ever the event is being held over 2 days to allow a wider mix of entrants to run and have fun while keeping fit.

On Saturday 27th April, there are a variety of races for youngsters and an Expo, while on Sunday 28th, competitors can participate in the half marathon, a 10k race, walkathons or family fun runs.   1,250 athletes from across 58 nations competed in the race challenges during last year’s event and in 2019 organisers are determined to make the whole experience even bigger and better.

A week later, on Saturday 4th May is when the Gozo Ultra race competition gets underway.   This ultra-endurance trek is regarded by many as one of the Mediterranean’s most challenging but beautiful trail runs and is described as a mix of technical trails and easy running.   The full distance is 50km, starting and finishing in Għajnsielem Square – with plenty of rest stops and replenishing stations along the route.

So, if you enjoy the trials of mixed terrain treks and the solitude of long distance running as you push your personal fitness levels to the max, then this course crisscrossing Gozo’s most dramatic yet grueling landscapes could be the one for you.

The Xterra Malta organized event sees runners spanning the perimeter of our island, running along cliff tops, valleys and beaches.

However, to attract newcomers there is also a shorter 21km trail run held on the same day.  Last year over 180 competitors successfully completed both the longer and shorter trail routes.

So, what exactly are you waiting for?  Grab your trainers and your water bottle because this year this could be you!

With special thanks to:  Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon and Xterra Malta.