The Maltese Olympic Committee (MOC) hosted its 21st Gala Sports Awards on Sunday evening, a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of Malta’s athletes and teams across the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 competitive seasons.

A total of 173 awards were presented to athletes who distinguished themselves on the international stage in competitions recognized by the MOC and reputable international sporting bodies. The selection criteria rigorously assessed the level of competition, the number of participants, and the overall results achieved by the Maltese contingent.

Competitions under review ranged from the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) and European Youth Olympic Festival to World Championships and the Olympic Games themselves. These awards acknowledge both established national figures and emerging talents who continue to elevate Malta’s profile in the global sporting arena.

Maria Vella-Galea, Chairperson of the Gala Sports Awards Organising Committee, remarked: “This evening celebrates the dedication, resilience, and ambition of Malta’s athletes. Each award represents countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. We are honoured to recognise their achievements and to shine a spotlight on the individuals and teams who continue to raise Malta’s profile on the international sporting stage.”

Hall of Fame Welcomes Three Sporting Icons

A major highlight of the evening was the induction of three distinguished figures into the MOC Hall of Fame. Each was recognized for their exceptional lifetime contribution to sport in Malta and for embodying the Olympic values of excellence, respect, friendship, and true sportsmanship.

The 2025 inductees are:

• Charles Camenzuli: A celebrated sports historian and journalist, whose career has been instrumental in chronicling Malta’s sporting and Olympic journey.
• Jean-Paul Fleri Soler: An Olympian and one of the leading forces behind the evolution and success of sailing in Malta.
• The late Patrick Pace: A pioneering figure whose dedication and vision played a central role in the growth and development of baseball on the island.

Julian Pace Bonello, President of the Maltese Olympic Committee, added: “The past two years have showcased outstanding performances across multiple sports. These awards are not only a recognition of achievement but also a testament to the continued growth of Maltese sport. We are immensely proud of our athletes and remain committed to supporting them as they pursue excellence at the highest levels.”

Selected Award Highlights

The awards gala presented a wide array of accolades across Bronze, Silver, Gold, Accomplistment, and Special Award categories, reflecting success in over a dozen sports.

GSSE Gold Award Recipients included:

• Athletics: Beppe Grillo, Gina McNamara.
• Artistic Gymnastics: Sophie St John, Team Malta.
• Swimming: Sasha Gatt.
• Artistic Swimming: Ana Culic, Thea Grima Buttigieg.
• Karate: Luke Galea, Jessica Vella.
• Table Tennis: Men’s Team (Daniel Bajada, Dimitrij Prokopcov, Felix Wetzel), Women’s Team (Maria-Carmela Iacob, Renata Stribkova).

Gold Awards for other international competitions included:

• Billiards & Snooker: Brian Cini.
• Sailing: Team Boost Stella Maris, Victoria Schultheis.