Scarred? More like 'lightly scratched'. Ricco's expulsion was the headliner, but compared to the last couple of years, it was a very different Tour. Sure, people will point to Riis's past and ask questions about CSC's strength, but the full disclosure model with long-term blood profiling sets the right kind of precedent. As apoch mentioned, the Olympics will begin with an EPO testing regime that passes samples that look highly suspicious to those now overseeing professional cycling.
Lets see, they busted* what four riders out of 180 that started? I think 'lightly scratched' is much more accurate, no matter what those yahoos in the news think. Garmin-Chipolte, CSC Saxo, and Team Columbia were some of the best performing teams. It was a great tour. *had four positive A samples, afaik, B results that might condemn or clear the riders haven't been announced.
Everytime I saw a Garmin-Chipotle rider I had to chuckle. Maybe the Chipotle riders didn't dope, but if their sponsor also provided their food, they likely were afforded extra propulsion.
I'd like to hear from someone on the medical side of things. Could some of these guys be getting false positive readings? Is it possible their bodies have a completely different chemistry from your average Joe that allows them to race at top speed every day for 100 miles, thus giving false positives when they are tested? Just wondering.
Despite the multiple doping incidents I liked this Tour.There was drama,excitement and many changes in who wore the yellow jersey.Often,when Lance won,it was a little dull because you knew he'd win yet another one.
Not a medical person... but I do know the samples are compared to a pre-established base line... and they take lots and lots of data before the race starts... thus deviations pop out. Ya gotta be especially dumb to try with the testing sensitivity they have today.
