Jonathan Balzan to participate in the 2011 Athens Classic Marathon courtesy of Powerade

Earlier this year, Powerade, distributed by The General Soft Drinks Co Ltd, announced that the Maltese National with the best time in the 2011 Malta Marathon would be given this opportunity. Powerade will cover flights, accommodation as well as the participation fee for Balzan to take part in the 2011 Athens Classic Marathon.

When asked about his training schedule to prepare for such a marathon, Balzan said, “For these marathons, one must concentrate on long running sessions which are normally done on a Sunday. Apart from that, one should also train the mind to withstand the idea of so many kilometres, whilst making some sacrifices and maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet”.

He also added that “This year it felt like a double victory being the first Maltese to finish the race after winning the Malta Running Challenge in November of last year. (42.2km race over three days). Given that the Athens marathon is in mid-November, I will start my training late August bearing in mind how hot the weather is at that time of year in Malta. Last but not least, I would like to thank Powerade for this great opportunity that is giving me”.