Gozo half marathon first to obtain European race certification

Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon have announced that it is the first half-marathon in Malta which boasts a level of certification from European Athletics.

The number of participants taking part in the event is increasing at a very rapid pace and such a certification acts as an assurance for roadrunners throughout Europe. European Athletics forms part of the foundation of Running for All, which is a very strong and recognizable brand for running activities around Europe and which makes this award extremely more prestigious.

To get awarded a 3-star level rating, 54 different categories were deeply assessed and thoroughly evaluated by European Athletics and the Malta Amateur Athletics Association – varying from administration and finance to the length and conditions of the course - to obtain the full picture of the overall conditions which many athletes, coming from all over the world, have to compete in.

To continuously increase the event’s quality standard, the organising committee has invested in a new race-timing system which will ensure the most accurate timing when an athlete crosses the finish line.

The range of UHF timing systems developed by RFID Race Timing will read any tags that conform to the RFID Gen 2 protocol. The committee also made sure that this system would be available every year, hence it was decided the committee buys this system, making an investment of around €15,000.

In preparation for the 2017 event, the organising committee campaigned to instil a healthy lifestyle and create a sense of social responsibility in every single Gozo Half-Marathon follower.

Up till now, a record of more than 700 people have registered to take part, hailing from 38 different nations. This goes to show our commitment to ensure that our races are open to all, irrespective of age, race or orientation and this year’s design of the medal represents our belief of openness and acceptance.

Interested participants can register for the half marathon, 8 mile race, 8 mile walkathon, 4km, 2km or 2km fun run by 27 April. Registration is inclusive of free transport between Mgarr Ferry Terminal and Xaghra Square, a Diadora technical running top and a goody bag.

Showering and sanitary facilities will also be available.

The Gozo Half Marathon Organising Committee lies within the Xaghra Youth Centre and is being proudly supported by Teamsport, Diadora, San Michel, Gatorade, Xaghra Local Council and Malta Tourism Authority.