I’ve been thinking about writing a post about why, we as spectators and fellow competitors, allow the drug cheats in the sport to prosper after they come out of the closet. I’ve mentioned it a few times in passing, but never really focused on it. I really can’t stand it when Elite riders start talking to me about irrelevant stuff like how fast Levi is riding Strava segements, (supposedly it is because he is so rested now, if you’re interested, I’m not.) and what some of the other “fallen heros” are doing. I wish they would understand I don’t give a shit.
I really don’t feel much like ranting today, but I thought of this because I read a post over at Crankpunk on the subject a couple days ago. It is pretty good and shows that there is almost no financial loss to the caught riders.
Other than Lance, I very much doubt any other rider has a lawsuit filed against them for any monetary reimbursement. Most of the “famous” guys that have been outed are millionaires. Multi-millionaires. I heard Levis showed up at a local ride in a Porsche. It’s a joke. Since I completely disregard any of their careers results, my opinion is that they shouldn’t have a penny in their pockets they received from riding bikes. They cheated/stole, my friends and other deserving athletes, money and life experiences. They should have to give the money back.
I can’t believe how many current young Pros are going to ride the charity events that the “retired heroes” promote. I would never attend George’s, Levi’s or whoever’s Gran Fondo. I can’t believe that current Professional team directors allow their sponsored riders to attend these events.
These guys are putting on camps that charge campers up to $12000 for a few days of riding. You can do it with Ryder in Hawaii, Christian in Rancho Santa Fe, or George at his super chic hotel in South Carolina/. Rich people are paying to hang with guys that used drugs to steal fame and results. I don’t get it.
I say that the proceeds of these camps go back to a rider developement fund for up and coming riders that don’t have to compete against the doping/cheating athletes that are the very ones providing the backing for the fund.
As long as it pays to cheat, riders are going to keep cheating. The sanctions are bullshit. Even if the new 4 year suspensions go into effect, where are the fines. The rules need to be draconian and make it financially disastrous to both the riders and the teams if there is doping violation. I don’t see any other way to stop it, because the sponsors and fans don’t seem to really care. Feel free to click on one of the links above, I think some of the camps might have a few openings.
