Fans pay tribute to Samuel Sanchez

On Saturday, the fans of Samu Sanchez had organised a big tribute to the exceptional Euskaltel rider. In Güeñes, a small place in Samu`s home province Asturias, Samu`s brilliant season was celebrated in the Casa Consisitorial del municipio. The mayor spoke highly of Samu, and after the official act, food was served. Fellow Euskaltel rider Aketza Peña Iza was present, along with Fundación Euskadi head Miguel Madariaga and mechanic Tomás Amezaga. Samu has had his best season ever, and has been among the very best on Pro Tour level; the highest level for a professional cyclist. Added to his palmarès this season were two stage wins in the Vuelta al Pais Vasco, a stage in Vuelta a Asturias, a stage in the Vuelta a España and the Championship of Zurich, along with a second in the Fleche Wallonne, Giro de Lombardia, a fourth in the World Championship road-race and a second place on the final UCI Pro Tour classifications. (from www.fundacioneuskadi.com)