National Lottery plc and the Malta Sports Journalists Association (MSJA) are pleased to announce that Fabio Spiteri won the fifth IZIBET Elite Athlete Award for 2024, covering the months of September and October.

On Thursday 12th September, Fabio Spiteri became the first Maltese ultra-triathlete to complete the DECA race at Lake Garda in Italy. The DECA Ultra Triathlon leads participants to over a total distance of 2,260 kilometres which corresponds to 10 times an Ironman race. Athletes are involved in a 38 km swim, 1,800 km bike ride before rounding off with a 422 km run, which the latter is equivalent to 10 marathon races.

After an unsuccessful attempt last year in Brazil, where he was forced to withdraw due to severe blisters and torn muscles, Spiteri completed this year’s DECA challenge in 12 days, crossing the finish line with a total time of 264 hours, 51 minutes, and 58 seconds, placing sixth overall out of 11 participants. Spiteri dedicated this achievement to the memory of his late close friend and triathlete Jake Vella, and in support of Project 100, his mission to raise €100,000 for animal shelters in Malta.

Franco de Gabriele, Chief Commercial Officer of IZI Group commented “Fabio Spiteri’s completion of the DECA Ultra Triathlon is nothing short of extraordinary. At IZIBET, we believe in celebrating resilience, dedication, and exceptional athletic feats, and Fabio embodies these values in every sense. His perseverance, especially after overcoming last year’s setback, highlights not only his physical strength but also his unwavering determination and heart. Fabio’s devotion to raising funds for animal shelters in Malta adds a profound layer of purpose to his journey, making this recognition even more deserved.”

Clinton Buhagiar, President of the Malta Sports Journalists Association said, “Fabio Spiteri’s perseverance and dedication are qualities to be truly admired and appreciated. His achievements required immense sacrifice and rigorous training, embodying a remarkable level of commitment. Spiteri stands as a true example of professionalism and dedication.”

The IZIBET Elite Athlete Award recognises exceptional performances by local athletes and is awarded every two months.

A selection board composed of sports journalists and sports observers is responsible for evaluating the athlete’s achievements during the designated review periods, ensuring a fair and thorough assessment process.

In the meantime, the official website of the Malta Sports Journalists Association https://www.maltasportsjournalists.com/izibet-elite-athlete-award/ provides the rules and regulations governing the award.

Photo caption: (From left)  Stephen Azzopardi (Administrator of the Malta Sports Journalists Association), Clinton Buhagiar (President of the Malta Sports Journalists Association, Fabio Spiteri and Lorraine Cunningham (General Secretary of the Malta Sports Journalists Association).