Celebrating Excellence in Sports
The Silvestre of the Year Awards, presented by the San Silvestre Vallecana Sports Group, recognize outstanding achievements in sports and the values that come with them, such as dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance.
These awards also acknowledge the passion for sports of individuals and institutions that make a positive impact on people’s lives. Past winners include notable athletes like Pau and Marc Gasol, Mireia Belmonte, and Javier Fernández, as well as institutions like the New York Marathon.
The 2024 Winners
This year’s winners include triple jumper Jordan Díaz, cyclist Luis Ángel Maté, judoka Fran Garrigós, journalists Mónica Martínez and Lourdes García Campos, and cardiologist Gonzalo Guzzo.
Jordan Díaz had a remarkable season, winning gold at the European Championship in Rome and the Olympic title in Paris. He expressed his gratitude for the award, stating that it is an “incredible honor” to receive recognition from the most important race in the world.
A New Chapter for Luis Ángel Maté
Luis Ángel Maté, also known as ‘Lince,’ has decided to retire from professional cycling after 17 seasons. He has been a consistent and skilled climber, earning him a place in the history of national cycling.
Maté praised the San Silvestre Vallecana, saying that it has become an essential part of Spanish culture and a clear example of how sports can transform society. He also expressed his desire to participate in the race as a runner in the future.
Fran Garrigós: A Historic Achievement
Fran Garrigós, a Madrid judoka, made history by winning the first Olympic medal for Spanish judo in 24 years. He took home the bronze medal in the -60 kilo category at the Paris Games.
The Commitment of Two Journalists
Mónica Martínez has been the voice of the Nationale-Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana for several years, energizing 40,000 runners at the starting line. She confessed that she will miss participating in the Vallecana festival this year due to her presenting duties on Telemadrid.
Lourdes García Campos, a popular face in Spanish sports television, has covered seven Olympic Games and narrated the athletics events at the Paris Games. She is a declared fan of the San Silvestre Vallecana and always makes sure to include it in her agenda.
Gonzalo Guzzo: Promoting Cardiovascular Health
Gonzalo Guzzo, head of the Cardiology Service at the General University of Villalba public hospital, was awarded for promoting sports activity as a means to achieve good cardiovascular health. He praised Antonio Sabugueiro, the creator of the San Silvestre Vallecana, for his contribution to the health of the country.
Special 60th Anniversary Awards
The San Silvestre Vallecana Sports Group also awarded the Silvestre Special 60th Anniversary to three individuals who have supported the event since its inception: journalist José María García, former mayor of Madrid José María Álvarez del Manzano, and former sports councilor José Gabriel Astudillo.
José María García praised Antonio Sabugueiro, saying that his achievement in creating the San Silvestre Vallecana is impossible to match.