What is the point? The question ahead of that question can come from any of a number of perspectives. Is Floyd Landis telling the truth now, has he ever told the truth? Who’s racing clean? Who isn’t? Are the performances in this most entertaining of Giro legitimate? Did he or didn’t he?

Old School
Cycling and drugs have a long history, we all know that. From Tom Simpson in the 60’s, to the CERA laced antics of Ricardo Ricco and Danilo DiLuca, the problem is entrenched. It has been variously reported that nearly every Tour De France podium finisher since 1996 has been implicated in the drugs-for-results game, not to mention the classics. Big names, legendary names, leaders of the sport, have seemingly traded their integrity for the glory, ultimately hollow, and the money, seemingly tainted, offered for their sacrifice. Take drugs, win. Get caught, lose. But is it really that simple?

It seems to me that the crux of the problem in cycling is rooted in two simple elements – a long standing systematic ‘old school’ approach to racing that makes performance enhancing drugs (PED’s) commonplace. This culture of acceptability, nee inevitability, allows for the indoctrination, and ultimately the justification, of those champions and would-be champions who simply follow suit and do what is said to be necessary. 

The other element is the lifestyle itself. Riders live under constant physical strain. Everyday is riding, racing, and recovery. Everyday. While we all enjoy a hard training ride, a block of high volume and high intensity, or the opportunity to ride as many miles as we want when the family is away, we cannot really understand the seemingly monastic lifestyle of a pro cyclist. Yet, any who’ve raced can attest to the addictive nature of that life. We want to be in top shape, to go on the road, race and be in the scene. There isn’t much more intoxicating than being at a race as part of the race. To be accepted by your peers is a function of talent and work ethic so is it a stretch that one might seek a short cut, to see how the temptation might arise?

I’ve read some compelling articles on the whole sordid mess these past few days. From those excoriating Floyd Landis for his accusations, to those who think it is a necessary step to finally out the wrong doers, and ultimately rid the peloton of drugs. In most cases the arguments are made passionately by people who love the sport. Both sides. Don’t confuse the passion of an argument, or the vehemence of the venom thrown, as either validation or vindication. The truth is that the drug problem in cycling is more complex than a single attack or defend campaign can easily parse, and we’re all complicit. So, rather than has thru a back and forth of that which has already passed, let’s look for some indications that things may actually be changing.

Exhibit #1
The Zoncolan stage at the Giro on Sunday. Ivan Basso and Cadel Evans lit up the finale in a spectacle of tenacity, it was great to see. I was equally pleased to read some analysis of the likely power output by these riders on the climb. La Gazetta Dello Sport and the Wattage List had independent analysis that showed Basso climbing at a feasible 1770 meters an hour, which averaged out to between 5.3 and 6.5 Watts per kilogram. La Gazetta estimated that Basso averaged about 400 Watts for the climb. Impressive numbers, but a full 1:45, and 80 verticle meters per hour, slower than Simoni on the same climb in 2007. Additionally, you could see the toll that Vincenzo Nibali paid on the climb after his spirited stage win the day before.

Exhibit #2
The Big Bear stage at Tour of California on May 21st. Jakob Fugalsang of Saxo Bank had his file analyzed by some of the sports top coaches. Look at it you can see that he had a very difficult, but not impossible day in the break. His best average hour was just over 350 Watts, which is about 95% of his estimated threshold power of 380 Watts. The real kicker is that he averaged 87% of Threhsold power for almost three hours while in the break. That’s what makes these guys pro’s. Further, looking ahead to the next days time trial Jakob clearly paid for his effort and averaged just 316W for the time trial. That seems human.

Personally, I’m torn. I’ve read the accusations, heard the denials, and wondered at each days performance far too often to remain constantly incredulous. Instead I find that each new accusation is further stain on the heart of the sport, yet they won’t take away my love of a good race. I’m a lifer. I’ll tune in every time just to see a great race, but I do hope the dope gets taken out – it makes for better racing frankly.

About Matt McNamara
Matt McNamara is a USA Cycling Level 1 coach with over 20 years of racing, coaching and team management experience. He is currently developing a set of time efficient, cost effective training programs that are delivered via e-mail each day. For more information or to sign up, drop him an email – This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or visit the company website www.sterlingwins.com.