Once again, the integrity of the athletes we’ve come to admire has been questioned. If it’s not one sport, it’s another. If not fidelity, than doping. We want to believe in the athletes whom we cheer. For their amazing performances, we liken them to well-oiled machines.
Years ago, it was Floyd Landis that I believed in. Today, as he admits to having lied all along, then accuses every other cyclist whom I also have come to admire and believe in, my world is shaken. It’s like finding out that Santa Claus doesn’t exist.
For those who believe, no proof is necessary. For those who don’t believe, no proof is possible. — Stuart Chase
I won’t pretend to know about doping in the world of cycling, or any other sport for that matter. With all of the reports on doping in the past many years, those less familiar with cycling might perceive the sport as tainted by cheaters. However, if you were to delve deeper, you would see that some cyclists have been thrown out on suspicion alone — without ever testing positive.
The sport of cycling demands that their participants be willing to test at any point of time — even 2 am. Can you see any of these 2009 top 10 athletes opening up their doors at 2 am so provide a blood sample? I think NOT!
Suppose leagues such as the NFL and NBA also held their athletes to the same rules. Would the number of athletes kicked out from the sports (rightfully or not) be higher? I’m not saying.
Anyway…
To Dave Zabriskie, Levi Leipheimer, George Hincapie, Jim Ochowitz, Andy Rihs, Johan Bruyneel, and Lance Armstrong: I am one who believes…in YOU.
excellent take on this, Juls. I too believe.
Whether they dope or don’t dope… the result is the same. The affect on my life is nil… :-)
I think the stuart chase quote sums it up….you can’t change other folks beliefs.
I too believe.