And Now He's A Champion: JJ Rojas

Caisse d'Epargne rider José Joaquin Rojas Gil has just won the opening stage of the Vuelta a Murcia. In so doing, he not only scored his first professional win, but he also beat several on form sprinters; J.J. Haedo, fresh from a Tour of California victory; King of the Sprinting Squirrels, Graeme Brown, who also just won a stage in Cali; and Danilo Napolitano, first loser to Tom Boonen in the final stage of the recent Vuelta a Andalucia.

So who is this promising young Spaniard? Mr. 60 investigates.

He was born on June 8th 1985.

Yes, I know what you're thinking...and totally! That's exactly one year and five days before Mary-Kate and Ashley's b-day!

OMG! BFF right?!

He grew up in Cieza, which happens to be a small town in the region of, you guessed it, Murcia! That makes today's a hometown victory! They won't make fun of the skinny kid for not wanting to play futbol anymore.

Scenic Cieza. Is it any wonder he's a sprinter?

Mr. 60's calls to Juan Lucas Turpin, the president of the Club Ciclista Cieza, were not returned in time for publication.

When asked by Spanish daily Aula De El Mundo who his favorite cyclist was, a 17 year old Jose-Joaquin answered: Laurant Jalabert (like, duh -ed.).

He was Spain's Junior National Champion, but cycling wasn't the only thing on this talented young man's mind. It is interesting to note that while racing as an amateur, Jose Joaquin studied electromechanical engineering.

Way to multi-task!

He signed with Liberty Seguros in 2006 as a neo-professional. Following the Operacion Puerto scandal, he ended the year riding with Astana. The name of his dog has not been made public.

Twice a day in the culo, Dr. Fuentes?

Thursday's second stage will cover 177 kilometers from Totana to Fortuna, with the Alto de Espuña (Cat.1) first, and the Collado Bermejo (aka "Cima Marco Pantani", the highest point in the race) coming halfway through the stage.

Best of luck with those hills tomorrow, JJ!