When the passing of the months has almost made us forget the joy of San Roque '85, the approach of the festivities once again rekindles our enthusiasm.
For me, however, that enthusiasm has an even deeper and more personal meaning. It is not only the lively sound of the brass bands or the bustle of the crews that I remember with affection. My thoughts return to my very first days as a crew member: barely twenty friends, our shared sense of humour, and the slightly mischievous pleasure of knowing that what we were doing—what today we might call a movement—was neither supported nor even particularly well regarded. Those simple beginnings laid the foundations of my lifelong San Roque spirit.
Yet it is not only the past that holds happy memories. This year, few people can imagine the immense satisfaction I have felt at the honour of being named Peñista del Año. I regard this distinction as recognition of so many years of dedication, enthusiasm and loyalty to the crews and to the San Roque Festivities.
All that remains is for me to express my heartfelt gratitude and to encourage everyone—both the people of Calatayud and all those visiting our city during these eagerly awaited days—to jump, celebrate and share their enthusiasm, so that these San Roque Festivities, already the finest in Spain, become truly magical days that will remain forever in our memories.
