Everyone has heard by now that another TDF rider tested positive today. He was two-stage winner this year and dominant in the Pyrenees. He tested positive for a new EPO-type of drug - so new that it has only been available at the beginning of the year.
The doping labs said they are working with pharma companies to get an early look at drugs that might be used by athletes. This drug, Micera, is a more convenient form of EPO. The labs said they had the molecule some time ago to develop a test.
I bet some riders are nervous now thinking they could get away with this drug.
This is good news.....
All of this is such a tragedy. It will become a vicious cycle. Hopefully the tests will not become costly.
To get to the elite level one will now have to be able to afford expensive equipment (Like the new suit!) and these fees that you mention will ultimately fall on the athlete. People who are not independently wealthy will have to get sponsors or find some other way to get the money. How does one go about getting sponsors or more money? Usually by winning big. The desire to win big may drive folks to get the upper edge and thus seek out PEDs.
Instead of a simple competition between naturally gifted athletes it may simply become a competition between folks with the most means and "shady connections"!
Maybe the penalties for getting caught need to be more severe. I'm not sure that would curb it though.
All of this is such a tragedy. It will become a vicious cycle. Hopefully the tests will not become costly.
To get to the elite level one will now have to be able to afford expensive equipment (Like the new suit!) and these fees that you mention will ultimately fall on the athlete. People who are not independently wealthy will have to get sponsors or find some other way to get the money. How does one go about getting sponsors or more money? Usually by winning big. The desire to win big may drive folks to get the upper edge and thus seek out PEDs.
Instead of a simple competition between naturally gifted athletes it may simply become a competition between folks with the most means and "shady connections"!
Maybe the penalties for getting caught need to be more severe. I'm not sure that would curb it though.
