Luke Borg And Marie Claire Aquilina Crowned Season’s Champions At MMBA National Championships

Luke Borg And Marie Claire Aquilina Crowned Season’s Champions At MMBA National Championships
Local

Luke Borg And Marie Claire Aquilina Crowned Season’s Champions At the Malta Mountain Bike Association (MMBA) National Championships, on a brand-new course in Pembroke, where riders battled demanding technical terrain and intense summer heat.

In the Elite race, Luke Borg delivered a dominant performance, setting the pace from the opening lap and maintaining his lead to secure the national title. Mark Bonnici briefly joined him at the front before a crash ended his challenge, while Clyve Chetcuti's hopes of second place were dashed by a late puncture. Etienne Bonello capitalised with a composed ride to finish second, 30 seconds behind Borg, with Chetcuti taking third.

Marie Claire Aquilina reclaimed the Ladies national title ahead of Fiona Tedesco and Michelle Mifsud. Other category winners included Josmar Vella (Sport), Liran Ben-Ari (40+), Stephen Grima (50+), Andrei Cassone (Under 19 Boys), Ethan Cumbo (Under 15 Boys), Kim Micallef Cann (Under 15 Girls), Nolan Tabone (Under 12 Boys) and Amy Micallef Cann (Under 12 Girls). Neil Cassar and Katie Anne Vella Wood also impressed in the Under 17 categories.

The championships also marked the introduction of the new Explorers category, designed to encourage newcomers to experience mountain bike racing in a supportive environment, while the Fun Ride gave younger participants the opportunity to enjoy the sport without the pressure of competition.

MMBA President Fiona Tedesco praised all riders for competing in challenging conditions and highlighted the new Pembroke course as an exciting addition that provided excellent racing and a great spectator experience. The association also thanked sponsors Cisk 0.0 and Solar Solutions, together with the Swieqi and Pembroke Community Police, for their support in making the event a success.

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