Malta Classic (formerly known as Mdina Grand Prix) launched

The Minister for Tourism Dr. Edward Zammit Lewis and Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation, Youth and Sport Chris Agius today launched the Malta Classic, formerly known as the Mdina Grand Prix

During the launch of Malta Classic, Minister Zammit Lewis stated that 'this prestigious event is now in its sixth year and has positively contributed towards building a strong image for our islands as a diverse destination. It is an honour for the Government to support the Malta Classic that has now firmly established itself within our yearly calendar of events.'

The Minister emphasised that the Government acknowledges the great potential of local Sports Tourism, which is increasingly growing. The Maltese islands are being actively promoted as a suitable destination for a number of outdoor activity holidays such as diving, walking, cycling and rock-climbing. 'We believe in Malta as an ideal destination where sports and outdoor activities can be practiced all year round' said the Minister for Tourism Dr Edward Zammit Lewis.

Malta offers a unique setting to both participants and spectators, as, it is being held against the magnificent backdrops of the localities of Mellieħa and Mdina. Our history, mild climate and, excellent hospitality are well known internationally and this is exactly what makes our islands a highly appealing destination for tourists and visitors all-year round.

The Minister for Tourism noted that this event is effectively promoted overseas through adverts on specialized publications targeting automobile enthusiasts and this year, the MTA will also be hosting a number of specialized journalists & photographers from established publications such as Motorsports Magazine (UK), Huffington Post (Germany) & Guida Viaggi (Italy) amongst others, to cover the event.

Furthermore MTA overseas offices also promote the Malta Classic through web advertising, social media, press releases and e-newsletters to media, tourism trade contacts as well as the general public. Articles and photography worth thousands of Euros of promotion are then published, whereby Malta as a destination and the Malta Classic event are given international coverage. The Government is firmly committed to support events of this caliber, for better prospects in the Tourism Sector for the immediate future and beyond.

Mr Chris Agius,said that the Malta Classic has become an important event in Malta's sporting calendar. He said competitions of the sort helped promote sports tourism in our country, a niche that is expanding rapidly.   In addition, Sport Malta is fulfilling its aim of hosting more international competitions in Malta, giving local athletes a chance to compete against the best without the expense of travelling abroad.  Taking part in such events is beneficial for local athletes since it broadens their experience in the discipline they practice, by competing with people of the same or of higher calibre.

In conclusion, the Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis and Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation, Youth and Sport Chris Agius thanked the organisers who keep this exciting sport event a fixed event for avid car enthusiasts, Maltese families and tourists alike and wished for the event to be a success.  

from The Malta Independent http://ift.tt/2dzrqJl
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