During the 2 weeks of the Christmas Holidays the Gozo Greyhounds Sports Club has been busy helping to keep youngsters who love bike riding to stay active and be healthy.

Organiser Louis Debattista said "we've done some rides on the roads of Gozo from Qala to the horse track in Xewkija, where we then did some running and training and then rode back to Qala. It was a busy 2 weeks on the bike with rides from Qala to Ghajnsielem to Xewkija to Munxar to Victoria and back to Qala."

"On Thursday, New Year's Eve, the Gozo Greyhounds Sports Club went out with 2 kids to ride on the Gozo roads. My eight-year-old boy rode 18km non-stop and Matt, aged 13, (who has been riding consecutively for 5 days with me) continued riding with me for an amazing 55km!" Louis said.

He continued, "we rode the hills of Gharb from the back of the church, Ta Pinu from the back of the church and up to Zebbug hill and then to Marsaforn and back to Xaghra hill from the Victoria to Marsalforn road."

"He was very determined and focused, with no complaints. I want to say thanks Matt for the company I enjoyed riding with you; you made my day on Thursday. I wish to see or find more kids like him in Gozo, who want to stay active and enjoy bike riding!"

Louis said, "our kids need to be out of the house and exploring our island and staying active, along with studying an learning, believing in God, caring and sharing."

On Friday, New Year's Day, 6 riders from age 8 to 13 years old went on their bicycles to see the nativity cribs on display at the Gozo Exhibition Hall in Victoria. The group also stopped for a short break to play at the park in Munxar. In total the group rode 21km.

"Please Gozo, make a fresh start in 2016 and get out and do something active with your kids. Gozo is beautiful and has a lot to offer-you just need to open your eyes and take the time to enjoy it." Louis appealed to everyone to, "make some effort and take your kids, your family, out for a walk in the countryside or get your kids involved in any sports so they grow up active and not lazy."

"We parents are responsible for the health of our kids- and taking the time, even half an hour, to spend with our kids on a walk can do wonders. Not only is it important for physical health, you will likely find yourselves talking more together when you get out of the house. It is a great opportunity to connect with each other and enjoy being outdoors."

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