I won here last year but I'm even better now - Hamilton's message to Canada

Reasons to celebrate: Lewis Hamilton won in Monaco

It was a triumph Hamilton described as the highlight of his career to date, and
potentially the highlight of his life.

Hamilton certainly produced a performance to underline his belief he has
changed since that heady day in Canada last June.

The 23-year-old overcame an early slide into a wall, sustaining a puncture, and
treacherously wet conditions to take the chequered flag.

"As I said at the time, winning at Monaco is the highlight of my career,"
said Hamilton.

"It was a very emotional victory for me as it is something I have dreamed of
since I was a kid.

"I will never forget the moment, but now my only focus with the team is
Canada, one of my favourite tracks.

"Following my debut win there it is a very special place for me.

"Last year was one of the biggest accomplishments of my life, to take my
maiden pole and victory in Formula One was incredible.

"It would be great to go back there and do the same, and that is what we are
working hard to achieve.

"Since then I think I've matured a lot, grown stronger as a driver and have
become closer to the team."

And although Hamilton is looking forward to his return he will certainly go
into the race with his feet on the ground because he will know he has achieved
nothing yet this season.

But in holding a three-point lead over Kimi Raikkonen, he added:  "We have
good momentum right now and we are pushing to keep that going and to keep
developing.

"I just hope we will be quick there again this year, although it is a circuit
renowned for its difficult surfaces and the walls.

"Despite being very fast, it can feel like a street circuit with the barriers
very close.

"But it is good fun to drive, and I am looking forward to getting back
there."

Team-mate Heikki Kovalainen, meanwhile, has endured a wretched run of bad luck
following incidents in the last three races in Spain, Turkey and Monaco that
have left him trailing in the championship.

Lagging 23 points behind Hamilton with a third of the season gone, the Finn is
just looking for his luck to his turn.

"The last few races have been pretty difficult for one reason or another,"
said Kovalainen.

"But all the time we know the car is quick and now I am hoping to be able to
demonstrate that and get a good result with the team."