Mum of Two Joins Zach Vella for Opening Day of Gruelling Six-Day Running Challenge

Maltese endurance runner Zach Vella has completed the opening day of his ambitious six-day, 360-kilometre running challenge in support of YMCA Malta, setting a strong tone for his Christmas fundraising campaign.

On Boxing Day, Vella ran the full 60 kilometres from Golden Bay to Marsaxlokk, beginning a gruelling endurance effort aimed at raising €20,000 for YMCA Malta’s work with young people and individuals experiencing homelessness.

The first day was marked not only by physical resilience, but also by widespread community support. Several members of the public joined Vella along the route, including 42-year-old mother of two Rose Marie Decelis, who ran the entire 60 kilometres alongside him from start to finish.

Reflecting on the day, Vella said the support he received reinforced the purpose of the challenge. He noted that seeing people step in to run beside him, particularly someone committing to the full distance, highlighted the strength of community and what can be achieved through collective effort.

Decelis said she joined the run because she believed in thinking of others, adding that every small contribution counts and that running together makes the challenge more meaningful.

Vella’s challenge is designed to be inclusive, with runners of all abilities invited to join at different stages, while others can support by donating or following his progress online. The run continues until 31 December, concluding with a final loop in Vella’s hometown of Mġarr on New Year’s Eve.

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