Ultra-endurance runner Zach Vella completed day five of his six-day, 360-kilometre running challenge around Malta yesterday.He overcame injury and exhaustion to reach what has been described as the toughest day of the challenge so far.Vella is aiming to conclude the challenge today by running a final 60 kilometres in loops around the Mġarr church, in support of YMCA Malta, which works with people experiencing homelessness.Day five proved particularly demanding both physically and mentally. Starting at sunrise and heading towards Golden Bay, the route included one of the most challenging sections of the entire challenge, with a long uphill climb towards Baħrija. The cumulative fatigue from several consecutive days of running meant Vella required more frequent stops, making it the most taxing stage to date.Adding to the difficulty, Vella has been managing a tendon injury in his left ankle, which worsened during the run and led to significant swelling by the end of the day. His physiotherapy team from Stride Physiotherapy has been providing daily on-site and clinic-based treatment throughout the challenge, including electrotherapy, manual therapy and tailored exercise programmes aimed at reducing inflammation and supporting recovery.Stride Physiotherapy has also assisted with route planning to manage elevation, as well as advising on footwear choices to minimise further strain. In the lead-up to the challenge, the team supported Vella through sports science testing, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy and recovery work.Despite the physical strain, Vella remained in positive spirits, supported by fellow runners, crew members, friends and family. Familiar faces returned to run alongside him, while new participants joined throughout the day. Runners from Scotland and the Netherlands also took part, highlighting the growing community around the challenge.Several notable performances marked the day. Daniel Micallef Borg, who had already completed his own 60-kilometre run earlier in the challenge, returned to run an additional 30 kilometres with Vella. Taz Gambin completed the full 60 kilometres alongside him, while Andrew Calafato and Luke Borg ran close to marathon distances.With 300 kilometres completed, Vella now enters Day 6, the final stage of the challenge, determined to complete the final 60 kilometres around his home town of Mġarr.All funds raised are being donated to YMCA Malta. Members of the public are encouraged to donate, join Vella for any part of the route, or attend the finish line to show support. Runners of all abilities are welcome to participate in sections of the run, while supporters can follow daily updates and route information shared on social media.Donations can be made online, and updates throughout the challenge are being shared on social platforms.Vella’s journey can be followed on www.instagram.com/homebound.mtGood luck for the rest of the journey Zach!•