Maltese endurance runner Zach Vella has covered 240 kilometres in just four days, powering through the fourth leg of his six-day, 360km fundraising challenge in aid of YMCA Malta as the effort enters its most demanding phase.With two days still to go, Vella has already raised €16,500, edging closer to his €20,000 target. He is continuing to urge the public to donate and to join him on the road, helping push the challenge over the line in its final stretch.Day 4 was widely described as one of the most scenic and emotionally uplifting stages of the run. Setting off from Golden Bay (Għajn Tuffieħa) at 7am, the route cut through Malta’s western heartland, passing Rabat and Siġġiewi, with a meaningful stop at Dar tal-Providenza. From there, Vella continued south to Birżebbuġa and Marsaxlokk, before finishing the day at the Freedom Day Monument in Birgu, surrounded by sweeping sea views, historic streets and colourful fishing harbours.Support along the route continued to grow, with the past two days marked by constant encouragement, cheers and runners joining at different points to show solidarity. Seven people crossed the Day 4 finish line alongside Vella, each starting from different locations to be part of the journey.Despite the increasing physical strain, Vella remains mentally strong. “The pain is definitely getting worse, but like I said from the start, there are no showstoppers,” he said. “My mind and spirit are very good, and that’s what’s carrying me through.”The challenge now heads into its final phase, with Vella pushing towards the full 360km total. The six-day run continues until 31st December 2025, with 60 kilometres covered each day, and will culminate in a symbolic final loop around his hometown of Mġarr on New Year’s Eve.Today, Tuesday 30th December, Vella will begin running from Xemxija at 7am, passing through Il-Baħrija, Rabat, Ta’ Qali, St Julian’s and the Malta National Aquarium, before returning to Golden Bay in the afternoon. The final day, Wednesday 31st December, will see him start at Mġarr at 7am, completing loop runs throughout the day, with the final loop scheduled for 4pm.Runners of all abilities are encouraged to join him for any part of the route, while supporters can also contribute by donating or following daily updates shared online throughout the challenge.Vella’s journey can be followed on www.instagram.com/homebound.mt, while donations in aid of YMCA Malta can be made online at the official fundraising page.Credit: Justine Ellul & Sam Chetcuti •