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Stoner Thrilled to Be Back in Shape

After a very difficult period for the Australian rider, struggling with unknown health problems, Casey Stoner revealed he is absolutely thrilled to feel in shape and prove everybody he still has the same pleasure for riding and will to win.

With critics questioning his fitness issues and his uncertain competitive form for the remainder of the season, Stoner managed to make one of the best statements by dominating the Australian GP at Phillip Island.

After securing the pole on Saturday, the Ducati works rider managed an undeniable victory, by leading Sunday’s race from start to finish.

"I was really happy that physically I was able to do the same from start to finish," revealed Stoner. "I was just really happy with the way everything was working and especially my body. Every lap I kept going past the point where I used to just hit my wall. It made me smile - I enjoyed each lap after that."

The Australian proved to be very happy with both his own and the team’s performance after the undesired mid-season vacation. He reckoned the Australian victory came in just right after a very good run at Estoril in Portugal on their first return grand prix.

To come back in Portugal was a really nice result for us," said Stoner. "Jorge was just too quick on the day, but we almost had the pace to win the race. I'm really proud of the team and all of us for coming back that quickly. After the warm-up in Portugal, this race was just a run on from that.

We've struggled all weekend with rear grip. We were trying to get the bike hooked up a little bit better out of turns, but I think everybody was suffering with similar problems. We just did the best we could for the race. The bike was working pretty well,” disclosed Stoner about the Australian race.

"It's very nice to be back here. To do three from three would be a very nice way to end the year for me," ended Stoner on an optimistic and grateful tone.
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