Sastre's childhood dreams come true
Carlos Sastre is the third successive Spaniard to take the Tour de France title
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Carlos Sastre lifted his first Tour de France crown at his eight attempt and becomes the third Spaniard in as many years to claim the title. |  |
Monday, 28, Jul 2008 09:44
Tour de France winner Carlos Sastre revealed he fulfilled a childhood dream by winning the famous race.
The 33-year-old became the third Spaniard in as many years to win the tour.
"It's very moving," said Sastre after he clinched victory in Paris.
""It's a dream coming true - ever since I was little I've been thinking about this moment.
"After my Vuelta victory in 2005 I thought I could one day win the Tour. But I had to fight, get experience, and finally I have done it.
"I'm beyond words, to be here with my family is really special."
Sastre finished 65 seconds ahead of Cadel Evans, who finished in the runner-up spot for the second successive year.
It was always an uphill task for Evans after a heavy crash on stage nine affected the Australian's hopes of winning his first Tour title.
"I had some little mistakes but just to be able to continue after the crash in the first week was something I was happy with," said the Silence-Lotto rider.
"To finish second is a good ride. Of course I'd like to win but it's not easy to win the Tour de France.
"I'm hoping to build on the good progression of the last four years, and if I continue that for four more years hopefully I can achieve it - winning the Tour."
Sastre's victory caps a remarkable summer for Spanish sport, with the national team winning Euro 2008 and Rafael Nadal taking the Wimbledon crown.