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Samuel Sanchez interview: Winner of the polkadot jersey at the Tour
Q. Sami, congratulations on winning the Polkadot Jersey. How did it feel to stand on the podium on the Champs Elysees as a winner?
A. For me it was very special to be on the podium on the Champs Elysees. It is the dream of every rider to be on the podium in Paris in the Tour de France, so it was a great joy and great reward for all the work.
Q. How would you compare winning the stage to Luz-Ardiden & Polkadot Jersey, to winning the 2008 Olympic Gold Medal?
A. You can not compare. Both are the most important victories of my life. Winning a gold medal in the Olympics, everyone is aware, both the people following cycling and those who don't. Is everyone who learns the sport, is not confined to cycling. And winning a stage and the mountain jersey in the Tour is the ultimate in cycling world. Each has a great value, but do not look more than personal satisfaction.
Q. Can you descibe to us the thoughts going through your mind as you soloed to victory at the summit of Luz-Ardiden?
A. That was amazing! Luz Ardiden is a climb with a strong emotional component to my team and to win there, with all our fans in the gutter, was spectacular. It was very exciting and I willremember that period all my life.
Q. We often saw you talking with Alberto Contador in the Alps. Was this to discuss attacks & tactics, or simply a case that both of you speak Spanish?
A. The real situation was that we both lost time in the first stage and both needed time to recover. Alberto wanted to win the Tour and I dreamed of the podium. We both needed time to recover and it was a natural alliance. When it suited the two we worked together, but each to their interests and goals.
Q. After a well earned rest, what's next for you in 2011, and thinking ahead to 2012?
A.First you have to finish 2011. For me the future is today, so I do not think in 2012. We will finish the season, remaining important goals as the Clasica San Sebastian and will plan later 2012.
One comment to "Samuel Sanchez interview: Winner of the polkadot jersey at the Tour"
Good interview. The stage 12 victory of Sami's was one of my favorites to watch in this years tour.
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