Some riders develop such an affinity for a race that merely returning to it gives them a psychological boost.
Andre Greipel (Lotto-Belisol) could be forgiven for replacing his Germanic inflections with an Australian twang when giving interviews in English, such is his success rate Down Under.
By racking up a thirteenth stage win in Australia’s only WorldTour event, Greipel has surpassed the achievments of home-grown hero, Robbie McEwen, and taken an early lead in the season-long battle for the unofficial title of ‘world’s best sprinter’.
Of course, a certain Manxman will have his say in that particular contest. Mark Cavendish is unlikely to worry too much about Greipel’s love affair with Adelaide, however – his heart belongs to Paris.
Here’s all the action from stage four of the 2013 Tour Down Under from Stefano Sirotti.
Philippe Gilbert proudly displays his BMC Team Machine, one finished in the livery of world champion
Andre Greipel celebrates again in his happiest hunting ground
Geraint Thomas and his Team Sky colleagues enjoyed a quiet stage, but will be braced for action on Old Willunga Hill tomorrow
Greipel looks wistful as he waves to the crowd, perhaps reflecting on the scale of his achievement
Thomas de Gendt’s chances of overall victory ended in a crash on stage two. The Belgian could be a contender in other stage races this season
