Maltese Surfski Athletes Secure Podium Finishes in Norwegian Races

​OSLO, NORWAY – Two athletes from Malta, Mattea Micallef and Matthew Schembri, showcased their skills on the international stage with a series of strong performances in Norwegian surfski races this past week. The pair secured multiple podium finishes, demonstrating their readiness for the upcoming world championships in Durban, South Africa.

​Nineteen-year-old Mattea Micallef, who has been training in Norway with the Oslo Kajakklub since early August, was joined by veteran paddler Matthew Schembri, 33, for the back-to-back competitions.

​The first race was the 14th edition of the Seadog in Oslo on Thursday, August 28. Competing in the double, Micallef and Schembri led for a significant portion of the race. They held their own against a top men's double team, battling for the lead throughout the course. The Maltese duo ultimately finished second overall, but their strong performance earned them a first-place finish in the mixed doubles category.

Seadog race- Matthew and Mattea in the white ski with the green tip

​The action continued at the Sildodden Surfski Challenge in Risør, located 300km south of Oslo. The event, which also served as a Norwegian Cup race, attracted top competitors from Norway and Denmark.

Singles start

​The singles race on Saturday, August 30, was full of drama at the start. While Micallef skillfully avoided a pile-up, Schembri was caught in the chaos. Undeterred, Schembri used his impressive open-water skills to fight his way back from 20th place, ultimately securing third place in the men’s category. Micallef also put her downwind expertise on display, earning a third-place finish in the women’s category.

​On Sunday, August 31, the pair reunited for the doubles race under challenging conditions, navigating waves of 1.0-1.5 meters hitting them from the side. They once again proved their prowess, finishing in third place in the mixed doubles.

​Following their successful weekend, the Maltese athletes extended their gratitude to Jan Horn and the Oslo Kajakklub for their unwavering support and invaluable assistance during their time in Norway. The club would also like thank Sport Malta for its financial assistance via the International Participation Scheme.