Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1521430
NEWS 14 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 29 MAY 2024 Emma Said shines at European Trials Championship in Piazzatorre THE European Trials Championship held on 25 and 26 May saw an extraordinary dis- play of talent and tenacity from Emma Said of Malta. Competing in the Women International Class, Emma, just 13 years old, went head- to-head with riders aged 16 to 18, showcas- ing exceptional skill and determination in challenging conditions. The competition, set in the picturesque yet demanding terrain of Piazzatorre, was further complicated by inclement weather, turning the already rough sections into a tough challenge. Despite these hurdles, Em- ma delivered a performance that belied her age and experience. Saturday's competition was challenging, with Emma tackling 12 sections in the morn- ing round and another 12 in the afternoon. The day took a dramatic turn when Emma's minder, Shaun Said, sustained an injury dur- ing Round 1. This unexpected setback made the remain- der of the day exceptionally challenging. However, both Emma and Shaun demon- strated remarkable resilience and commit- ment, pushing through the adversity. Their efforts culminated in Emma securing a commendable third place by the end of the day. Sunday brought a new set of challenges. With Shaun unable to continue due to his injury, José Bacchetta stepped in as Emma's minder. Despite the last-minute change, Emma once again navigated the tough sections with determination. Her efforts on Sunday mir- rored those of the previous day, earning her another third-place finish. This championship marked Emma's first participation at such a high level of competi- tion, making her double podium finishes all the more impressive. Her ability to compete and excel under such challenging circumstances speaks vol- umes about her potential and fortitude. Emma's achievements over the weekend are a testament to her talent and hard work. Her performances in Piazzatorre not only earned her recognition but also set a high bar for future competitions. Special praise is due to Shaun Said, whose resilience and determination, despite his in- jury, played a crucial role in Emma's success. Additionally, gratitude is extended to José Bacchetta for stepping in and providing the support necessary for Emma to compete on Sunday.