Paris, France (CN) – The 2011 Tour de France has concluded and there are smiles all around. After 3,471km of racing much of the peloton is excited to for this epic event to be over – and some with good reason. Cadel Evens became the first Australian to win the event and his emotions overcame him once realizing what he had accomplished. Some described it as one of the most competitive tours ever as up until the final days, the yellow jersey seemed for certain on the back of Andy Schleck only to be taken the next day after Andy faltered in the individual time-trial. Andy Schleck and his brother Frank finished 2nd and 3rd respectively writing history as the first brothers to finish atop the leader-board together.

What’s even more impressive are the positive attitudes both displayed during interviews after the event. Coming so close to victory neither brother displayed any anger or disappointment towards their competitors or the situation. “…this year I have no regrets…being on the podium with my brother…its never happened before.” Andy went on to say, “I enjoyed standing up there and will enjoy tonight’s dinner. It was a fantastic podium. I am happy for Cadel.” Frank said, “We did great. No regrets.”

Congratulations to the Schleck brothers. Your smiles and happiness will propel us through the scandals and raids that are soon to follow.