The Force 5 to 6 winds did not stop Maltese athlete, Luke Micallef from succeeding and he wowed everyone with impressive results and a new national record in the athletic obstacle race!

The athlete produced an outstanding run in the 3,000-meter steeplechase in the last event of the third Open Challenge Meeting, finishing at 9:09.00, just under the GSSE qualification level (9.10.00).

The Pembroke athlete improved his previous record by an astounding nine seconds with this time, which he had set last July at the National Championships, making this victory a new personal best. However, Luke Micallef also set a new national record with these timings.

Speaking with GuideMeMalta, Luke expressed his post-performance thoughts. 

"Was not expecting to do it on my first try this year! But felt powerful from the start and went for it." 

"Sometimes it is tougher to beat a limit set by yourself, because i remember i was in really top form last July. Sometimes I would think that it would be impossible to reach those levels again."

Nicolai Bonello of La Salle improved his pole vault national record earlier in the day with a jump of 4.45 meters, making it his second such achievement this month.

Sana Grillo won the competition for females with a height of 3.30m.

Janet Richard (Pembroke A) won the 400m event decisively in 54.39s, well within the GSSE MQS, making it one of the day's most entertaining races.

 Kay Testa, a teenage athlete from Pembroke who is competing for a spot on the 4x400m women's national team, posted a very encouraging time of 58.63s in difficult windy conditions.

The men's race featured intense competition as well. Luke Camilleri of Pembroke recorded the best time of the day with a time of 50.39s, beating his teammate Steve Camilleri's time of 50.53s.

Joanne Vella (Pembroke A) set an Over 35 record in the javelin during the throws with a throw of 40.05 meters.

 After this weekend's competition, competitors will have three more chances to earn a seat on Team Malta, with the last chance being on May 1.

Congratulations are in order to all athletes!