Maltese drivers experienced mixed fortunes in today’s races in Sicily, with notable highs and lows across two major events.
In the Gran Premio Del Mediterraneo, Noel Baldacchino represented Malta aboard BARGECCHIA DR. Despite positioning himself strongly throughout the race, his mare lost stride in the final 100 meters while contending for third place, resulting in elimination. The race was won by Italy’s Tommaso Di Lorenzo on VAI MO BLESSED, with Serbia’s Milan Kovacevic taking second place on CHANEL DELLESELVE. These results secured Serbia’s victory in the Mediterranean Horseracing Union Drivers’ Championship.
In the Gran Premio delle Isole, the Maltese team delivered a strong performance. The race was won by Sicily’s CALVADOS BI, driven by Andrea Buzzitta, who surged ahead in the final bend to open a three-length lead. Malta’s Rodney Gatt, aboard MOJO EXPRESS, and Noel Baldacchino on HAVAROCHE launched powerful closing runs, narrowing the gap to a mere head at the finish. MOJO EXPRESS and HAVAROCHE placed second and third, respectively, with exceptional times of 1’11.8 and 1’11.9.
Unfortunately, Malta’s other entries faced setbacks, with WHOTHEHILLAREYOU disqualified and SUMMERRAZZ retiring from the race. Despite the challenges, the Maltese drivers showcased determination and competitiveness on an international stage.
