"I feel like I'm in the best shape I've been in. That's what it took to win. I haven't had much success in the single until this year. Hopefully now I've learnt how to win in it."
He ruled out competing in the singles sculls at international level, for now.
"I'll hang up the sculls for a wee while and get back on the [sweep] oar. I might still do a bit in training, that's all. It's just a hobby, but a good one."
"It's been a bit frustrating getting silver all summer," Drysdale said. "But the tight racing is good for me. Now I've got to kick on to the world championship campaign from June to August. I'm pleased I don't have to race him overseas.
"I was out of it at the 1000m but fought my way back. With 250m to go I still thought I had a chance but he had enough to hold on."
"It's a privileged position in New Zealand. We've got so many good scullers. What other country in the world would you have three Olympic gold medallists battling it out for the first three places in the national championships?
"If Bondy wanted a crack in the single it'd come down to a trial, but I'd still back myself."