Cadel Evans of the BMC Racing Team formally received the “Mendrisio d’Oro” trophy for his outstanding achievements during the 2009 cycling season.

‘A Great Honor’
Evans, the reigning world road race champion, was given the prestigious international award from the Velo Club Mendrisio during a presentation by the mayor of Mendrisio, Switzerland, which is close to the Australian’s seasonal home in Europe. “Winning Mendrisio d’Oro is a great honor for any cyclist, just look at the list of past winners,” Evans said. “For me personally, to be presented such an internationally-recognized award by the mayor of my local town, is an even greater honor.” The first winner of Mendrisio d’Oro was Eddy Merckx in 1972. Fabian Cancellara won the award in 2008.