Whether you're a runner or a couch potato looking for an excuse to get fit, here are a few runs and marathons you can participate in on the Maltese Islands.
Whether you're up for a new challenge or you're a seasoned runner, below you'll find the marathons and races that are noteworthy on the Maltese Islands. The experience will certainly be a memorable one, from each of the marathons and races to a fun park run.
1. Malta Marathon & Malta Half Marathon
The Malta Marathon & Malta Half Marathon take place within the same event happening in late February/early March each year. Anybody who is eligible according to the criteria laid out by the Malta Marathon Organising Committee may participate. The route runs from Mdina to Sliema, and also includes a Walkathon. Learn more about the Malta Marathon.
2. Gozo Half Marathon
This one, held in late April/early May, is for the tough cookies who are absolutely prepared, both physically and mentally. The continuous uneven terrain ends with a final two kilometres which are considered to be among the most challenging in the Maltese Islands. The organising committee also organises the Gozo Family 5k Run, the Gozo Family 2k Run, the Gozo 8 miles Walkathon and the Gozo 5k Walkathon. Learn more about races in Gozo you can participate in.
3. Zurrieq Half Marathon & 10k
Also organised by the Malta Marathon Organising Committee on behalf of the Zurrieq Wolves Athletic Club, the Zurrieq Half Marathon & 10k race happens around November. The route runs along the roads in and around Zurrieq. Find out more about how to participate in the Zurrieq Half Marathon & 10k races.
4. Malta International Challenge Marathon
The Malta International Challenge Marathon is the only three-day running event on the Maltese Islands, and has been running (ha, sorry!) for 25 years. Routes around different parts of the country include the 10 miles (16k), 5k and 21k individual races and the Team Challenge Relay to a collective 42.195km, the distance of a full marathon. The races take place around November. Find out more about participating in the Malta International Challenge Marathon.
5. Attard 5k & Attard 10k
Organised by the Malta Marathon Organising Committee on behalf of the Attard Local Council, the Attard races are held early in the year, around late January/early February. The route runs through Ta' Qali and Attard. Learn more about how to take part in the Attard 10k and Attard 5k races.
BONUS: Weekly Park Run
Go from couch to 5k in a weekly park run aimed at encouraging people to exercise and improve their health and fitness. If you’re already a runner, just go for a fun park run or run a marathon! The Gerald DeGaetano Memorial Run is held on Saturdays at 8am, at Ta’ Qali Picnic Area, Malta. It’s a 5km route around the Park to run, jog or walk at your own pace. It’s child and dog friendly, and you are not obliged to attend every week. This is a free event organised by Drew Lang and his dedicated team; register here and you’re all set to go.
Full list of races by the MAAA (MALTA Amateur Athletics Association)
Are you gaining momentum to participate in some great races in Malta? For a full list of races see the MAAA calendar (MALTA Amateur Athletics Association). It includes the The MAAA Cross Country Races, MAAA Road Races, MAAA Track & Field Competitions, affiliated club events, events by non-affiliated organisers, events by local government entities and even the main international events held abroad.
Now get those running shoes on and run the next race!