The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge (P2P) was successfully completed on Sunday 28th September, raising important funds and awareness for Hospice Malta and The Children in Need Foundation.
Originally planned for Saturday but delayed due to bad weather, the Challenge saw participants Daniel Abela, Douglas Barbaro Sant, and Joseph Casha push themselves to the limit, covering 80 kilometres in 11 hours and 35 minutes.
They began their journey early Sunday morning at San Dimitri Point in Gozo, running through quiet streets in the dark. As the sun rose, they pushed on with hope. The sea swim was very tough due to strong waves and currents, but they made it to Armier in Malta. The cycle section was just as hard, especially with the hot weather, but support along the way helped them stay strong.
Support came in many forms, other runners, swimmers, and cyclists joined parts of the Challenge to motivate the team. Spectators also gathered at various points to cheer them on. The journey ended at St. Michael Hospice, where they were warmly welcomed by family, friends, supporters, and Hospice Malta staff and volunteers.
The P2P Challenge, an idea born from the friendship of the three participants, was more than a test of physical strength. It was a way to show support for those facing far greater challenges every day, children in need and people receiving palliative care.
Daniel Abela, founder of The Children in Need Foundation, said:
“This was a special journey. I was lucky to share it with two close friends who taught me a lot about being humble and thankful. The support we got made this possible, and I’m truly grateful. Thanks to the community and corporate sponsors, your generosity will help us give shelter and care to children who really need it.”
Joseph Casha said:
“This Challenge was all about teamwork. I’m thankful to all the volunteers and supporters who helped us through the day. I’ve learnt so much from this experience, and I feel I’ve received more than I’ve given.”
Douglas Barbaro Sant added:
“What made me smile was seeing so many people go beyond their limits for a good cause. Daniel, Joe and I may have been the faces of the Challenge, but the real heroes are those who supported us and donated. What we did in one day is small compared to the daily work of Hospice Malta and The Children in Need Foundation.”
Thanks to the generosity of both companies and individuals, a large amount of money has already been raised. However, the campaign is still ongoing, with a goal of €163,828. Now that the Challenge is complete, the organisers are asking the public to help reach the target, every donation counts, no matter how small. The funds will help Hospice Malta and The Children in Need Foundation continue their important work of offering care, dignity, and hope.
Alexia Demicoli, Chief Relationship Officer at Hospice Malta, thanked the three men, their crew, and everyone who supported them, especially their families, whose help made this possible.
“We are honoured to have been chosen as one of the two causes. The funds will help us continue providing free palliative care, which is in growing demand. With costs rising, every donation really helps.”
The total amount raised will be shared equally between the two organisations. This will help Hospice Malta continue supporting over 1,560 families each year, while The Children in Need Foundation will continue offering therapy, education, and safe spaces for children, including its K.I.D.S. Haven project in partnership with YMCA.
As the Challenge came to a close, the organisers thanked everyone, supporters, volunteers, and donors, who made this year’s event a success.
Julian Mamo, Managing Director of GasanMamo, said:
“We’re proud of what the GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge has achieved. It brought people together through teamwork and community spirit, all for two very worthy causes. A big thank you to all those involved. Together, we’ve shown how sport and kindness can make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Donations are still open for a limited time and can be made through this link:
👉 https://www.childreninneed.org.mt/donate-now
