Belgian Sven Nys, 32, takes his country's honour for athlete of the year. (Image credit: Bettini Photo)
Sven Nys was named male athlete of the year in Belgium this weekend, as the first cyclo-cross rider ever so honoured in his country. The awards were voted by Belgian journalists.
"I am not often nervous, but I am now. I have clammy hands," the 32-year-old said after accepting his award, according to sporza.be "For 10 years I have fought hard to stand here.
"I want to encourage all children who dream of being a top athlete to persevere," Nys added. "It is the most beautiful thing that there is. Try to make your dream come true."
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Nys won with 513 votes, far ahead of Stijn Devolder of Quick Step with 295 votes. Tom Boonen, also of Quick Step, was fifth, with 215 votes.(SW)
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