FROM MEMORY AND NOSTALGIA
I have travelled back in time.
In November 1958, we founded Euqor Crew, and in 1960–61 we created the Inter-Crew Federation. I believe it is because of those early years that I have been given the honour of being named Peñista del Año. However, and I hope no one will mind me saying so, I feel this distinction should be shared. In my heart, I share it with the twenty-one founders of Euqor Crew, the young women who were part of those beginnings, and especially with Amadeo, José Luis, Eduardo, José Mari and Eloy, who, together with me, formed the first committee.
I also share it with Manolo (Unión Crew), Pascual (La Bilbilitana Crew), Michigan (Los Que Faltaban Crew)—all three sadly no longer with us—together with Enrique (Rouna Crew), Ramiro (Nogara Crew), "El Niño" (Los Que Faltaban Crew), Acón (Clotados Crew) and El Desbarajuste Crew. All of us worked side by side through the Inter-Crew Federation, striving tirelessly for our crews and succeeding in establishing what has become our great celebration. Those were demanding years—years that can never be repeated, but which remain unforgettable and extraordinary.
To the newer generations of crew members, and to the newer crews—Solera Crew, La Bota Crew, El Cachirulo Crew, Nogara Crew and Garnacha Crew—whose own identity and character have brought fresh life to the festivities, and to the veteran crews whose experience has guided them over the years, I offer my heartfelt thanks for remembering those of us who were the pioneers (now growing old). You can be certain that I shall be there with all of you for the Chupinazo and the traditional walk up to the Hermitage of Saint Roch.
And to my beloved Euqor Crew, I have only this to say:
I was with you, I am with you, and I always will be.
From the depths of enduring memories and everlasting nostalgia, I simply say to you all:
Thank you.
HAPPY SAN ROQUE FESTIVITIES.
