I watched the East-German women (and men) win plenty of medals they did not deserve - and I always thought the punishments for doping were almost too light - but now I am starting to change my opinion.
I am sick and tired of watching football, baseball and basketball players get a slap on the wrist at worst - for obvious doping violations, while swimmers (and track athletes and cyclists) get vilified for offenses that are the same or even less severe. Just in this last month there was an actual countdown for Manny Ramirez to come back to the Dodgers -- he got standing ovations after a 50 game or 2 months supsension -- they had special promotions and what have you not. If you read the responses on Jessica Hardy dopng ban reduction ( a few months ago), there are people out there who want to throw out of the sport for good --- that is just plain wrong.
I think a six months suspension was more than enough - and that crazy Olympic ban rule has to be some sort of joke. I will accept that as soon as the US basketball, hockey and baseball team has to go through the same testing the swimmers have to pass through.
Former Member
But do you agree with a lifetime ban for doping offenders that cannot present a case that their use wasn't intentional?
Yes - I would even go further. I would strip them of all previous accomplishments and make them return all medals.
Why don't we join the issues of the Tech Suit and Doping. Keep the full length rubber suits, but if you get caught doping, you can still compete. But only in Lycra Briefs/Jammer or std womens suit.
Intent is hard to prove, that is part of the problem. Example: 16 year old vs 24 year old being given steroids by their coaches. I have a lot easier time saying that the 24 year old should have known. A 20 year old should know better but is still in the stage of life where it is common to point to others for moral guidance.
