The 2016 season was Miguel Ángel Benito’s second year as professional with Caja Rural – Seguros RGA. The 23-year-old Spaniard had a few problems at the beginning of the year but he finished off on a very strong note in the final races.

“On a scale from 1 to 10, I would give myself a 5 this year”, Benito explains. “The first part of the season was very bad. Although I could use various crashes and other problems as an excuse, I have to be critical and admit I wasn’t focused enough. However, despite everything, I was always very eager and I made it into several breakaways”.

Due to hard work and a strong determination, the last part of the season went much better for Benito. He was constantly on the attack and he came very close to take an impressive solo victory in Coppa Agostini where he was caught just 150 meters from the finishing line.

“I was much more dedicated in the second part of the season. I spent a lot of time away from home, doing altitude training and taking part in races. It was hard and difficult for me to be away from my family and my girlfriend for so long but it was worth it as I got to stay on with the team for another year”.

Unfortunately, a recent incident has forced Benito to postpone his preparation for the 2017 season a bit.

“While I was out training with my brother, I passed a speed bump and lost control of my bike. I took a hard blow to both of my knees. They are swollen and now, I have to be very careful to avoid any tendinitis. I hope I’ll be able to start training again, without any problems, in December so I can get a powerful start to the new season”.

Looking ahead to his third year with Caja Rural – Seguros RGA, Benito is determined to take his first professional win.

“I really want to get this victory that I was so close to achieving in the final part of this season. I don’t care which race it is, the important thing is that it happens. If it can be early in the new season, even better”.