Quick Facts
Athlete Introduction
Full Name
Ritianne Zammit
Country/Nationality
Maltese
Short Bio
I’m a 31-year-old long-distance runner driven by new challenges. I’ve recently also stepped into the world of hyrox. Professionally, I work as a certified tax accountant.
Athlete’s Stats
Discipline/Category
Long-distance running, including 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances. I recently completed my first hyrox race and ran my first full marathon, officially adding “marathoner” to the list.
Personal Bests
18:37 – 5Km
37:54 – 10Km
1:28:52 – Half Marathon
2:57:57 – Marathon
Career Highlights
Highlights
My running journey has been full of ups and downs. One of the most toughest moments came last year, just before the Malta Half Marathon, when I twisted my ankle. I chose to ignore it and continue with the race, but that decision led to multiple injuries, including achilles, shin bone bruise, and tendinopathy issues. The aftermath was brutal as I spent two to three months on complete rest, on crutches, unable to do basic everyday stuff like walking or driving.
During that period, I seriously questioned whether I should continue running at all. However, with the support of those close to me, I shifted my focus to recovery, patience, and rebuilding. Step by step, I started again from scratch. Recently, that perseverance paid off with a comeback I’m incredibly proud of: achieving around a two-minute personal best in both my 5km and 10km races and achieving my childhood dream, that of completing a full marathon. It reminded me that setbacks don’t define us, it’s how we come back does.
Awards
I strongly believe that achievements aren’t measured solely by trophies or podium finishes. Often, the greatest award is having the strength, resilience, and determination to make it to the start line and finish a race especially after setbacks. Every finish represents commitment, growth, and belief in the journey.
Training and Mindset
Training
My training is built around endurance, strength and consistency, adjusting volume and intensity depending on the current focus.
Coaches/Teams
Mark Herrera / Team MH/Pembroke Athleta (Running).
Karl Scortino / Vitera (Strength/Hyrxo).
Motivation (quotes/thoughts/mindset)
Trust the process, embrace the grind, and keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Personal Touch
Hobbies/Interests
Outside of sports, I love adventures, traveling, and relaxing with a good book.
Inspirations
I don’t have one specific individual I draw inspiration from. I’m inspired by everyday athletes and people who continue to show up, push through challenges, and stay committed to their goals regardless of pace or podiums.
Questions
About Their Running Journey
When and how did you start running?
My running journey began at a young age as a sprinter in short-distance events. After a long break, a close person introduced me to easy hour runs, which reignited my passion for running and set me on the path to achieving my marathon goal.
Do you remember your first race? What was it like?
My first long-distance race was the Zurrieq 10km. It was tough, challenging but incredibly rewarding.
What has been the most memorable race of your career?
Every race tells its own story, but two moments truly stand out: running a sub-19 5K after coming back from a long injury break, and finishing my first marathon. Each race was full of emotions and tested my physical and mental strength to the fullest in its own way.
Training and Preparation
What’s your favourite type of training workout?
While I do enjoy the 3 hr long runs, speed sessions remain my favourite as I find them challenging and rewarding.
How do you incorporate cross-training into your schedule?
I fit in my sessions where I can around my work and life schedule. I try to keep it flexible and balanced so it stays enjoyable and sustainable.
Do you use any technology or gadgets to track your training?
I use the Garmin Forerunner 165 music and HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
Personal Records and Achievements
What is your proudest running achievement so far?
Finishing my first marathon was a childhood dream, so crossing that finish line was incredibly special and is a moment that I will cherish forever. But honestly, my greatest achievement has been staying committed to the journey and continuing to show up for myself.
Are you working toward a specific running goal right now?
Currently, I’m focusing on recovery and getting back into structured training so I can keep building on what I have achieved.
How do you celebrate after achieving a major goal?
Appreciating the effort and enjoying some well-earned rest.
Mindset and Motivation
How do you stay motivated during long runs or difficult races?
In moments of doubt, I remind myself of everything it took to get me to that point, which helps me push through and keep going.
What has running taught you about perseverance?
Running has taught me that perseverance isn’t about quick results, but about showing up consistently, working through setbacks, and trusting the process one step at a time.
What advice would you give to runners struggling with motivation?
Focus on consistency rather than motivation. Some days showing up is already a win, and progress will follow if you stay patient and kind to yourself. Just keep in mind that baby steps still count.
Community and Impact
How has social media impacted your connection to the running world?
I view social media as both a source of inspiration and a way to stay connected to the global running community. It allows me to discover international races and learn about new equipment and running shoes.
How do you encourage others to start running?
Running is for everyone, regardless of ability or pace. The most important step is simply the first one. Once you start, you realise it’s not about perfection, but about showing up.
What legacy do you hope to leave in the running world?
I’d like to continue encourage others to start running and believe in their own journey.
Message
Trust the process, stay consistent, and be kind to yourself. Progress isn’t always loud but every step counts, especially the hard ones. Dream big as nothing is impossible.
Leave a Reply