HE Cyclist from Villajoyosa Felipe Orts came last sunday Amurrio her Spanish cyclocross champion’s sixth consecutive title. Something only two cyclists in history have ever achieved. José Luis Talamillo from Burgos in the 50s and 60s; and Biscayan David Seco, who did so in the early years of the 21st century.

The despicable runner is already in this situationSelected group of the best Spanish cyclocross ridersbut he is already looking to finish seventh and become the best specialist in Spanish cycling history.

happened the ninth of his career, as he also achieved one in the youth category (2013) and two in the under’23 (2016-2017).. Moreover, it was very special because it was the first thing I achieved. new team La Vila Joiosa-NeteoWhich he personally promoted with the support of his hometown’s city council.

Orts now focuses his gaze on another very special event: CX Benidorm Costa Blanca, World Cup test next Sunday Just ten kilometers from home, with his family, friends and all the people who support him.

What did it mean to win your sixth Spanish title?

It is always difficult to win the Spanish championship. You run with pressure and you can’t fail. In my case, the onus was on me to win and the rest was just trying. Luckily I was able to take control of the test, had an excellent race and dominated from start to finish; and I was able to get it.

He joined the elite cyclists, such as José Luis Talamillo and David Seco, who won six championships…

Yes, winning six times in the elite category is a complicated task. In fact, they have only had two cyclists throughout history. I am very excited and hope to achieve this again next year, placing seventh and remaining the person who has achieved this the most.

When he started, he dreamed that he could achieve these six titles, in addition to the three titles in the youth and under-23 categories.

Of course not. No one could have imagined this. When you win your first one, you do it with great excitement because you think it could be the first and the last. Winning eight more is very difficult and I could never imagine it.


Villajoyosa clicker reaches finish line as Spanish champion F.O.

Moreover, this year was very special because he did it with the new jersey of his new team…

Certainly. This was another pressure point because it was the team of the Spanish champions and the favourites. Doing this with new colors and new sponsors makes me even more satisfied.

Think running in Spain is too young for you?

Don’t believe it. I have really tough opponents. It is true that in recent years I have been one or two points above the level of others. But there is a lot of talent and new runners are emerging who may beat me one day. Maintaining the illusion of continuing to win is also a motivation.

He is also having a great season at international level…

Yes, this is the best season of my career. I achieved two podiums in Belgium and made progress on tracks that had previously resisted me, especially on mud. I’m happy because it’s hard to be among the best in the world.

And next Sunday there is a very special test: the World Cup in Benidorm…

That’s it. Now I have to try not to lose my concentration and keep my feet on the ground. The preparation work has already been completed and it will be a very good weekend, I hope I enjoy the atmosphere and the audience.

Does running at home create a little more pressure?

It’s better for me because the majority of the public will support me, unlike my competitors, and this motivates, encourages and excites me even more.

What do you hope to achieve in Benidorm?

A bit like last year when I was ninth. I’m trying to get into the top 10. It will not be easy because the best experts in the world are coming, but I am in good shape, I have to stay calm and hope to perform well with the support of the fans. good race.


Orts during the Spanish Championship test in Amurrio F.O.

Having the “Big Three” – the three best cyclocross players in the world – like Van de Poel, Van Aert and Pidcock is also something to enjoy…

It was already visible last year. There are three cyclists that are hard to see and all three overlapping in the same race on the same day, you can count them on the fingers of one hand. They enjoyed Benidorm last year and that’s why they’re coming back. It is a source of pride and, above all, a pleasure for the fans.

What would you say to the fans to come to Benidorm on Sunday?

Everyone who attended last year loved it and will definitely come back to watch the show. A unique experience that cannot be experienced every day.