Deignan on…

…THE OLYMPICS

‘The 2012 Olympics was a pivotal moment for the growth of our sport in this country. It was such a massive event and there were a lot of British female successes. In Britain I’ve never felt the media attention has been that bad. Europe has had a bit of catching up to do, but it’s getting there.’

…OFF-THE-BIKE TRAINING

‘I do a fair bit of core stability but I don’t do gym training. I used to when I was a track rider but felt like it was working against my physiology. I’m not somebody who builds muscle easily so it takes a fair bit out of me, which I find is detrimental to hours on the bike.’

…MOTHERHOOD

‘I feel psychologically stronger since having Orla. It’s not that I don’t care about my cycling but I’m not scared of failing. Not everything is riding on it anymore, which provides a certain freedom when it comes to racing and training. If I’ve had a bad day on the bike, there’s no time to dwell on it.’