As the veteran cyclist lined up a long-awaited Tour de France podium finish, parents Penny and Ian have given an insight into the agonising task of following his roller-coaster results back in Launceston.

Asked to describer her emotions, Penny said: "Happiness and relief but really we won't believe it until we see him on that third step.

"It's very nerve-wracking because we know the highs and the lows. I enjoy it when I know he's safe. On the other hand, it's a great privilege to have people take an interest in our son.

"We've had countless calls, messages and emails from all over the world. People are so kind and happy for us and for Richie and (his wife) Gemma. It's overwhelming and heart-warming and in these uncertain Covid days, a nice diversion for everyone maybe."

The Portes have three other sons - Nick, Kieran and Tom - and five grandchildren with another due in November plus Louie, the rottweiler Richie gave them after the untimely death of beloved family pet, Fritz.

Missing the birth of his second child was just the latest sacrifice the former Hagley Farm and St Patrick's College student has made for the sport.

"He's had so much time away from family especially the birth of Eloise and time away from Tassie. I know he now appreciates Tassie even more.

"He will feel enormous relief now, I'm sure, as reaching the Tour de France podium is a dream for any professional cyclist.

"Like any parent, we're just happy if he's happy."

Reflecting on Porte's career with Praties (2008-09), Saxo Bank (2010-11), Sky (2012-15), BMC (2016-18) and Trek-Segafredo (2019-20), Penny said it has been an exhausting ride.

"After three years as an amateur in Italy it was a huge relief when at almost age 25 he landed his first contract with Saxo Bank. It's been a big learning curve for us ever since.

"We're looking forward to that first photo of Richie with his family in Monaco especially seeing him with baby Eloise."