Representing Australia has always been a honour and a privilege, and the older and more experienced I get, the more I enjoy it.

As I see it, I'm just getting better and better as a rider - physically and mentally. I'm as motivated as I ever was. I enjoy it as much as I ever did. When you're a good rider on a good day, the bike doesn't rattle and bounce. You're smooth. Even if it's rough you can find a way to make the bike float.

I had to put it on the line, but it was my Tour to win and mine to lose.