Once again, we stand on the threshold of our beloved San Roque Festivities, and this year is especially meaningful for me, as I have been chosen to represent all the crew members and have been granted the honour of being named Peñista del Año, representing the ten San Roque Crews and their more than 4,500 members, who fill our streets with joy and colour.
When I stand on the Town Hall balcony to launch the ceremonial rocket that marks the beginning of the San Roque Festivities, I will remember the more than twenty years I have spent leading my crew, El Desbarajuste. I will think of all the children who grew up with us and who are now proudly spread across the different crews of Calatayud, bringing so much life and enthusiasm to the celebrations.
My thoughts will also be with the older generations, whose presence in the streets adds even greater splendour to the parades of the crews and their brass bands.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the Inter-Crew Federation and to the representatives of all the crews for placing their trust in me. I hope to prove worthy of the confidence they have shown. My thanks also go to the members of the committee of El Desbarajuste, with whom I have worked year after year to keep our crew alive. Thank you all.
I also hope that, once again, all of us as crew members will work together to ensure these festivities are as magnificent as ever, so that every visitor who spends these days with us returns home with wonderful memories of having enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. And if that is the case, let us all raise a glass together and proclaim with one united voice:
LONG LIVE SAINT ROCH 2005!
With my very best wishes for a happy and memorable San Roque Festivities.
