Steven...

How are you lately?

I’m fine, I started training again this week. After the Giro, I rested some. During the Giro, I broke my rib, so that took a while to heal. Occasionally, I can still feel it, but fortunately I am able to train without pain and it keeps improving. Anyway, it will never get in my way during the second half of the season.

How was your homecoming after the Giro d’Italia?

I received many positive comments on my performance, which was very nice to see. It was also wonderful to see that there was so much sympathy for me in the Netherlands.

What are your plans for the second half of the season?

Now, I am training in Girona, Spain. In the second week of July, I will travel to Andorra, where I will train for three weeks at altitude to get in shape for the rest of the season. I’ll ride the Clásica San Sebastián and fly to Rio de Janeiro for the Olympic Games. The Vuelta a España is also another main goal of my season and the main reason I’m travelling to Andorra for an altitude camp.

You already mentioned that you’ ve been selected for the Olympic Games. What does that mean for you?

I feel great. This is the first time I am able to go the Olympics. It is a good step in my cycling career and a wonderful reward for my performances in the Giro. I hope I am able to show something good there.