Dillon Cassar, Joelle Cortis set new 10K national records in Brighton

Dillon Cassar and Joelle Cortis produced impressive displays at the Brighton 10km race on Sunday as the two Maltese long-distance runners set new national records.

Cassar is enjoying an impressive season so far and it was the second time that he had set the national best on the distance.

In fact, Cassar completed the distance in a time of 30 minutes and 47 seconds to finish fourth overall.

Cassar’s time on Sunday was six seconds faster than his own previous national best he had set in Madrid earlier this year.“I came here for a reason.. National record for 10k broken again,” Cassar wrote on his facebook page.

“Happy to be here in Brighton race was fast 2 big hills but every race has its story and finish the distance of slightly longer. Well done to Joelle Cortis for her female National Record as well. Thanks to @runningwithus for helping us here..!!

“Thanks to everyone for your support especially @adionaxxx and my family for always being behind me, and of course my dad for his coaching.”

On her part, Cortis produced a storming effort in Brighton as she managed to complete the distance in 35 minutes and 36 seconds.

Cortis’ time was a huge improvement on the previous national best as she managed to lower the standard by more than 30 seconds. In fact, the previous record had been set by Michelle Dimech when clocking 36:15.

“ROAD NATIONAL RECORD… smashed by over 30seconds,” Cortis wrote.

“Wow what an incredible feeling racing again after a 6months absence!!! Passing the first 5km in 17;37.

“Super well done to my friend Dillon Cassar who also smashed his record !!! We both managed to reach our goals !!”