The night I received the phone call telling me that I had been chosen as Peñista del Año 2011, I have to admit that I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I burst into tears. I could hardly believe it, and it took me quite some time to take it all in. Afterwards, countless memories came flooding through my mind: all the years I have spent enjoying these wonderful San Roque Festivities in Calatayud, all the stories and experiences they have given me, the good times and the bad ones (although those are best forgotten), and all the people I have had the privilege of meeting. There will be people who cannot fully understand what this distinction means, but for those of us who truly live and love these festivities, no explanation is needed. Over the years I have served on committee boards (with Solera Crew) and, more recently, I had the honour of being President of the Inter-Crew Federation, with more or less success, but always doing my very best. Now this recognition has come my way: being chosen by the presidents of the San Roque Crews as Peñista del Año, an honour for which I will be forever grateful.
I would also like to remember those who received this distinction before me, because they above all will understand just how great this honour is. I also want to thank my friends, who have given me so many unforgettable moments, and, of course, my beloved Solera Crew.
I have already said that I have experienced many wonderful San Roque Festivities, but there are two that will always remain in my heart. One is, naturally, this year, 2011. The other, which surpasses everything else for me, was twenty years ago, during the Chupinazo of 1991, when my son was born.
I would also like to say that the true Peñistas del Año, not just this year but every year, are our partners and families, who support us through everything without complaint and without ever asking for anything in return.
I do not wish to keep you any longer. I simply ask you to enjoy what I believe is THE BEST FESTIVAL IN THE WORLD, and may it always be celebrated in a spirit of friendship, harmony and mutual respect.
