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Cyclist Positive Cocaine Test Blamed on Being Drunk, Blacking Out

Shane Bacon — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Just like the words "live strong" and "Lance Armstrong" go together, drugs and cycling have become synonymous in recent years ... as they should -- a ton of competitive bikers are using and getting caught.

Not a lot, however, are failing drug tests for recreational drugs. That wasn't the case for Belgium cyclist Tom Boonen, who failed his third drug test in less than three years, leading to Boonen getting help for both his drug and alcohol addictions.

Boonen admits to enjoying the sauce, and his reasoning for failing the drug test was pretty honest (and anyone who has had one too many drinks in their life can relate).

"I was very drunk. I do not know what happened, but the next day I tested positive for cocaine," he said.

It's refreshing when athletes don't B.S. us. He could have gone a number of ways to avoid telling the truth, but at least this guy manned up and told us what really happened.

Boonen was hammered, someone had some coke around, and he decided to rail some lines, believing the consequences weren't that big a deal in his current mental state. The sad thing is, Boonen is a helluva cyclist, winning a gold medal in the 2005 World Championships and his success has made him one of the premier athletes in Belgium this decade.

The good news is it appears the counseling is working and Boonen isn't using anymore.

"Hair samples proved that there was no cocaine in his system for more than four months," said (Quick Step Team manager Patrick) Lefevere. "The amount of cocaine present [at the time of his positive test] was enough to say that there was someone with him who was using it, and he came close to those people."

via Deadspin

Cyclist Positive Cocaine Test Blamed on Being Drunk, Blacking Out originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Brit Wins Tour's Second Stage as Lance Armstrong Hangs Back

FanHouse Newswire — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:56:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

BRIGNOLES, France (AP) -- Lance Armstrong just wanted to stay out of trouble on a scorching day one rider felt was better suited for baking bread.

British sprinter Mark Cavendish won the second stage of the Tour de France on Sunday, with Armstrong finishing safely in the pack and Fabian Cancellara of Switzerland keeping the leader's yellow jersey. Cancellara captured the opening time trial a day earlier.

Cancellara has an 18-second lead over 2007 Tour winner Alberto Contador of Spain. Bradley Wiggins of Britain is third, 19 seconds behind. Armstrong, the seven-time champion, is 10th, 40 seconds back.

Tyler Farrar of the United States finished second and Romain Feillu of France was third in the 116-mile route from Monaco to Brignoles. .

Armstrong is making a comeback to the Tour four years after retiring. The 37-year-old Texan said his strategy for this leg was "just avoid trouble and get in the rhythm of the race."

The Tour rolls across the rim of the Mediterranean for mostly flat stages the next few days, with a challenging team time trial Tuesday. Three days in the demanding Pyrenees start in Stage 7.
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"Yesterday was not really a normal stage," Armstrong said as he headed toward his Astana team bus. "These start to be the more normal stages."

The heat, however, was anything but normal.

"St(age) 2 done. Hot, hot, hot," Armstrong tweeted later. "Up/down/left/right but pretty uneventful," he wrote, before hailing a big fan turnout on the roadsides and congratulating Cavendish.

Many riders groaned about the weather.

"The heat was like you were baking bread. ... It was terrible," Cancellara said on French TV. He recounted how with about an hour left of riding his team manager said the temperature hit 104 degrees. "I haven't seen heat like that in years."

Cavendish had little trouble with the conditions. The 24-year-old rider, who is from the rarely hot Isle of Man, won three stages in the Giro d'Italia in May and is proving to be among the world's top sprinters.

He burst from the main pack behind a textbook escort by his Columbia teammates, then took over alone to finish a split second in front.

"I'm glad I could win to just pay them back," Cavendish said, who finished in 4 hours, 30 minutes, 2 minutes-the same time as all but two of the riders. "It's emotional for me."

With his fifth Tour stage win, Cavendish took the green jersey awarded to the best sprinter. This is his third Tour, but he has never finished. He wants that to change when the three-week race ends July 26 in Paris.

Armstrong, teammate Contador and other title contenders approached the stage cautiously to avoid crashes. Armstrong was 80th and Contador 58th.

The stage featured four minor climbs along sun-baked hills in a layout that favored sprinters and breakaway specialists. During the ride, water bottles sailed out of the pack like corn kernels popping, as cyclists refreshed themselves along the route that featured medieval sites like a Cistercian abbey.

There were three minor crashed midway through the race. One involved Saxo Bank team rider Frank Schleck of Luxembourg, a possible title contender.

In the first, Jurgen Van De Walle, a Belgian with the Quick Step team, scraped and bruised his left shoulder and knee. It was not clear if he would start Monday.

"With the heat like that, sometimes there's a lack of concentration among the riders," Cancellara said.

The field will face a similar ride Monday, a 122-mile leg from the port city of Marseille to La Grande Motte. The forecast is for hot weather.

By JAMEY KEATEN, Associated Press Writer

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press. Active hyperlinks have been inserted by AOL.

Brit Wins Tour's Second Stage as Lance Armstrong Hangs Back originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 17:56:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Denis Menchov Crashes, Gets on New Bike, Wins Giro d'Italia

Michael David Smith — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Russian cyclist Denis Menchov had a big lead Sunday as he approached the finish of the Giro d'Italia, but in the final half mile, he skidded out on the wet cobblestone, narrowly avoided getting hit by a passing motorcycle and slid on the ground for about 10 yards. That didn't stop him, though: He got up, discarded his damaged bike, hopped on a new bike given to him by a quick-thinking member of his team car, and won the race.

Menchov screamed as he crossed the finish line, and explained his emotions afterward:

"I knew all the tension over three weeks was finally over, so I had to express that," he said in Spanish, his words relayed by an interpreter. "It was a very, very big satisfaction for me. The best moment of my career, for sure." ...

"I think I am one of the best in the world and it is in my possibility to win the Tour de France," he said. "I don't know if I'm going to do it because it takes a good team and a lot of luck, but I know I am able to do it someday."

Lance Armstrong was also in the race; he took a conservative approach to avoid crashing and finished 12th.

Denis Menchov Crashes, Gets on New Bike, Wins Giro d'Italia originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:29:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cyclist Ben Hermans Rides Over Cat

Michael David Smith — Thu, 28 May 2009 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Like a car accident you can't look away from, a video of a black cat crossing the path in a Belgian bike race -- and getting run over by cyclist Ben Hermans -- has gone viral on YouTube. The video is below, but if you love cats, you probably don't want to watch.

Hermans couldn't swerve to avoid the cat, so he had no choice but to go right over it. Fortunately, none of the riders crashed.

The bizarre image of a bicycle riding over a cat has become big news in Belgium, with headlines like "Ben Hermans Rijdt Over Kat." So far I haven't been able to find any news on the condition of the cat.

Cyclist Ben Hermans Rides Over Cat originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Thu, 28 May 2009 09:59:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Expects Drug Test Flap to Keep Him Out of Tour de France

Michael David Smith — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 07:44:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

In a video on his web site, Lance Armstrong says he thinks it's likely he'll be prevented from riding in this summer's Tour de France because of a dispute with French officials over drug-testing procedures. The video is below.

Update on Lance's Injury, Response to Drug Testing Allegations -- powered by http://www.livestrong.com

"There is a very high likelihood that they will prohibit me from riding in the Tour," Armstrong said.

The dispute is in connection with a drug tester who showed up at Armstrong's home unexpected and demanded a sample. Armstrong took a shower and declined to submit to the drug test -- blood, urine and hair samples -- until he had time to ensure that the man was, in fact, a drug tester.

The French anti-doping agency took the delay as evidence that Armstrong "didn't respect the obligation to remain under observation of the person in charge of the doping control."

And so the greatest rider in the history of the Tour may never ride in the Tour again.

Lance Armstrong Expects Drug Test Flap to Keep Him Out of Tour de France originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 07:44:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Armstrong at Center of Sports Spin Zone

Greg Couch — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:47:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

When you see Lance Armstrong saying on his twitter account that he's "Picking up my kids at school. First time I've driven a car since the spill. Scary," does that clear him?

Because that's what we're down to, PR. There is no other way to know for sure. The French authorities, once again, are accusing Armstrong, suggesting he's hiding steroid use or some other performance enhancing drug. This time, the accusation goes, when he was about to be tested, he slipped away for a 20-minute shower. He could be in real trouble for this, as he's supposed to stay in the tester's view. These athletes slip away, and who knows what they do to clean up.

And you might believe that Armstrong is clean already, or you might believe he has found some way to beat the system for years. But the truth is, you don't know. I don't know. How are we supposed to know with any of these athletes anymore? It's a battle for belief now, for your belief, and your belief is not going to be based on anything more than public relations.

"At my son's flag football game," Armstrong tweeted the other day.

Well then, he must be clean.

To believe in Armstrong requires an even bigger commitment than it takes to believe in others. He has fought back from cancer and won the Tour de France seven times. Seven. He has been an incredible inspiration. He's a true American sports hero.

Or he's one of the biggest cheats in history. The higher the success, the greater the risk. If he has cheated to get to those heights, then he's the biggest cheat.

Marion Jones. Did you believe her? I did, stupidly. Barry Bonds? Not too many people believe him, and that has plenty to do with his attitude, his PR.

Lance Armstrong Photos

** FILE ** In this Monday, March 23, 2009 file photo Lance Armstrong of the United States rides on the first stage of the Vuelta of Castilla and Leon, between Paredes de Nava and Baltanas, Spain. France's anti-doping agency accused Lance Armstrong of violating its rules Thursday April 9, 2009 for not fully cooperating with a drug tester and says it could punish the seven-time Tour de France champion. (AP Photo/Victor R. Caivano, File)

FILE - In this Feb. 20, 2009 file photo, Team Astana's Lance Armstrong, of United States, heads down from the halfway point in Los Olivos, Calif. toward the finish line in Solvang during the Stage 6 Individual Time Trials at the Tour of California cycling race. Armstrong said in a statement on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, he did not try to evade a March 17 test in which, blood, urine and hair samples were collected and were ultimately found to be drug free. France's anti-doping agency sent a report on Armstrong's behavior during the test to cycling's governing body and the World Anti-Doping Agency. At question is a 20-minute delay when Armstrong says the tester agreed to let him shower while his assistants checked the tester's credentials. (AP Photo/Michael A. Mariant, File)

FILE - In this March 20, 2009 file photo, cyclist Lance Armstrong looks on during a press conference in Milan, Italy. Armstrong said in a statement on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, he did not try to evade a March 17 test in which, blood, urine and hair samples were collected and were ultimately found to be drug free. France's anti-doping agency sent a report on Armstrong's behavior during the test to cycling's governing body and the World Anti-Doping Agency. At question is a 20-minute delay when Armstrong says the tester agreed to let him shower while his assistants checked the tester's credentials. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni, File)

In this photo provided by Elizabeth Kreutz, seven-time Tour de France Champion Lance Armstrong listens to Dr. Douglas Elenz before surgery on his broken right collarbone Wednesday, March 25 2009, in Austin, Texas. Armstrong broke his collarbone in the first stage of the Vuelta of Castillo cycling race in Spain, Monday March 23, 2009. (AP Photo/Elizabeth Kreutz) ** NO SALES, ARCHIVES OUT, MAGAZINES OUT **

This photo provided by Elizabeth Kreutz, courtesy of CSE (Capital Sports & Entertainment), shows the X-ray of seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong after surgery on his right collarbone, showing one steel plate and twelve screws. Amrstrong had surgery at Austin Sports Medicine in Austin, Texas Wednesday, March 25, 2009 after a crash during the first stage of the Vuelta of Castillo bicycle race, Monday March 23, 2009. (AP Photo/Elizabeth Kreutz, CSE)

Spanish rider Alberto Contador, right, of the Astana team, stays ahead of the main group of riders during the fourth stage of the Vuelta of Castilla and Leon cycling race to Laguna de los Peces, Spain, Thursday March 26, 2009. U.S. rider Levi Leipheimer retains the overall lead. Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong left the race Monday after fracturing his collarbone in a crash. (AP Photo/EFE, Ruben Garcia) ** NO SALES, LATIN AMERICA, CARIBBEAN AND SPAIN OUT **

Spanish rider Juan Jose Cobo, of the Fuji Servetto team, celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the fourth stage of the Vuelta of Castilla and Leon cycling race in Laguna de los Peces, Spain, Thursday March 26, 2009. U.S. rider Levi Leipheimer retains the overall lead. Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong left the race Monday after fracturing his collarbone in a crash. (AP Photo/EFE, Ruben Garcia) ** NO SALES, LATIN AMERICA, CARIBBEAN AND SPAIN OUT **

At some point, though, the risk is too great to believe. I want to believe in Armstrong, and if I had to say it, I do. But exactly how disappointing would it be to find out he's a liar, too? The problem is that we can't find any real truth-tellers. The greatest one has been ... Jose Canseco.

Imagine that. He wrote a book and named names, and he was immediately ripped as a slimeball and money-grubber. Those things were true, of course.

But so was his book.

And when baseball commissioner Bud Selig kept looking the other way, hiding under his desk, sending out memos to his PR guys to please inform him what his conscience is telling him, well, that served to condemn every baseball player and even spread to other sports.

He's not the only one. But he's the one who mattered most, the one who was in charge of handling the eye of this storm. And his denials served only to discredit every honest ballplayer in favor of the word of the money-grubbing slimeball.

Selig came around, finally. But it was too late. And it has spread since then.

"Another 'surprise' anti-doping control," Armstrong tweeted at 7:31 a.m. on March 17. "24th one. This one from the French authorities. Urine, blood, and hair! Classic."

And at 9:38: "So I'm clear -- never complaining about these tests. Def part of the job. Feel targeted? Of course. But anything to prove I'm clean. Onward."

You feel targeted, Lance? You?

How about us?

What we have with Armstrong is one of two things: The French just can't accept that he has dominated something so important to them. They hate seeing it, so they are persecuting him, raising doubts simply by taking a backpack and syringe to his front door.

Or, he's a dirty cheat, and just a master of evasion.

What do we base our decision on? Maybe you wait for proof, but we've seen proof come on other athletes far too late, far after we committed. Armstrong has handled it perfectly, attacking the French authorities in a convincing way. Also, he has made himself accessible to the public, which gives an image of someone with nothing to hide.

In 2005, L'Equipe reported that a sample from Armstrong's 1999 Tour had been retested for research and was found to have EPO, which is banned. Armstrong said it was a plot against him, that he was clean and if his samples were tainted it was because someone else had done it. It is curious how such results became public in the first place.

The latest issue came March 17. Armstrong said he delayed the testing only while his team manager checked out the tester to make sure he was legit. Why question the tester? Armstrong reportedly said he wasn't aware that the French government's rules permitted any athlete living in France or visiting there to be tested.

Not a good idea for a guy claiming to have been tested more than anyone to say he doesn't know the rules.

Armstrong, who is trying to return for this summer's Tour de France, crashed in a race in Spain on March 23 and broke his clavicle. On his twitter account is a video of him explaining the injury, pointing to an X-ray with a dozen screws in it.

Innocent till proven guilty? That's just a legal thing. In the sports world, it's all about what you believe and what you're willing to risk believing.

We have no other guides. Unless Canseco knows something.

Armstrong at Center of Sports Spin Zone originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:47:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Armstrong Still Set for Tour de France

Shane Bacon — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: International Cycling, Cycling

If you thought the broken collarbone suffered by Lance Armstrong at the Tour de Castilla y Leon in Spain on Monday was going to keep him out of the 2009 Tour de France, you would apparently be incorrect.

The seven-time winner of the premier cycling event will compete in France and possibly in the Giro d'Italia, according to the Astana team manager Johan Bruyneel.

"I don't think this changes anything for the Tour de France," Bruyneel said Tuesday. "A broken collarbone in the month of March does not at all compromise the start of the Tour de France or your performance in the Tour de France."

Judging by the above picture found on Lance's popular Twitter page, the break has obviously been a problem. He has described it to his near 400,000 Twitter followers as "hurt(ing) like hell for now," but as anyone that has broken a bone can attest, such an injury doesn't normally tickle. Armstrong has until May 9 to be ready for the Giro, and the Tour de France isn't until July 4, but the big question mark is with his training. Like another Twitter post describes, "Btw, hard to tweet left handed," so I'm sure riding a bike and training for one of the most grueling events in the world isn't exactly going to be easy.

That said, if there was an athlete in this world that I'd put money on in Vegas to come back from some sort of injury to compete in an event that was in question, Lance would probably be at the top of my list with nobody even close. The guy took down cancer. He's scoffed at adversity.

The only problem is, if the guy went out and miraculously won this thing, I think the French might be so frustrated they'd actually ask for the Statue of Liberty back.

Armstrong Still Set for Tour de France originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong's Crash (Video)

Will Brinson — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 20:35:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Lance Armstrong returned to the cycling world yet again this year. The cycling legend intended to compete in the Tour de France and bring yet another title to America. However, his progress hit a major speed bump Monday when he broke his collarbone in a crash during the first stage of the Tour de Castilla y Leon in Spain. Video below (FYI: foreign announcers ahead.)

Via FanIQ

Lance Armstrong's Crash (Video) originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 20:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Lives Strong, Laughs Strong, Returns Strong

Elie Seckbach — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:57:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling, FanHouse TV, FanHouse Exclusive

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

Seven-time Tour De France winner Lance Armstrong is getting back on a bike after taking three years off. In this exclusive FanHouse video we hear from Lance, his fans, and Lance's close friend, actor Ben Stiller, who says that going to lunch with the sports icon is not as cool as people might think. We also find out how those yellow wrist bands we are all so familiar with came into being, and what Armstrong really thought about them at first.

Check out the video after the jump.

Lance Armstrong Lives Strong, Laughs Strong, Returns Strong originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:57:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Has Bike Stolen, Tweets About It

Matt Watson — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 17:40:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Lance Armstrong may be racing in the Amgen Tour of California, but he kicked off his morning like many of us: drinking some coffee, checking some email and watching ESPN in the background. How do I know this? Because the guy's on Twitter and he told me so.

Unfortunately, the quiet calm of his Sunday morning was soon interrupted: "Whoa!! They just came to my room and said our truck was broken into and someone stole my time trial bike! Wtf?!? APB out to the twitterati."

It's true -- the thieves not only swiped Armstrong's bike but also three belonging to his teammates. What the thieves may not have realized is that Armstrong's bike is one of a kind, a custom-made cycle easily recognized by cycling aficionados of the sport. Armstrong posted a picture of the bike on Twitter along with news of a reward, so it should be next to impossible for thieves to unload it without getting caught.

The only silver lining, I suppose, is that Armstrong completed the time trial portion of the race on Saturday, hours before the thieves took his bike. Cyclists generally use a more aerodynamic bike during time trials since they're not able to draft behind teammates, so when the first stage of the race (a 107-mile jaunt from Davis to Santa Rosa) kicked off this afternoon, Armstrong was back on his regular road bike.

Lance Armstrong

SACRAMENTO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Lance Armstrong of USA, riding for Astana, competes in the Prologue of the AMGEN Tour of California on February 14, 2009 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Lance Armstrong

Getty Images

SACRAMENTO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Levi Leipheimer (L) of the USA and riding for Astana earned the Points Leader jersey with his second place finish takes the podium with teammate Lance Armstrong (R) of the USA who was awarded the Most Courageous Rider jersey after his 10th place finish in the Prologue of the AMGEN Tour of California on February 14, 2009 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Lance Armstrong;Levi Leipheimer

Getty Images

SACRAMENTO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Lance Armstrong (R) of the USA and riding for Astana was awarded the Most Courageous Rider jersey and is congratulated by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger after his 10th place finish in the Prologue of the AMGEN Tour of California on February 14, 2009 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Lance Armstrong;Arnold Schwarzenegger

Getty Images

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (L) and Astana cyclist Lance Armstrong smile at the prologue of the Amgen Tour of California in Sacramento, California February 14, 2009. Saxo Bank cyclist Fabian Cancellara won the prologue, and is the race leader of the 750-mile (1,207-km), nine-day stage race. REUTERS/Max Whittaker (UNITED STATES)

Reuters

Lance Armstrong of team Asanta hits the first curve on Stage one of the Amgen Tour of California on Saturday, February 14, 2009, in Sacramento. (Paul Kitagaki Jr./Sacramento Bee/MCT)

MCT

Astana cyclist Lance Armstrong races the prologue of the Amgen Tour of California in Sacramento, California February 14, 2009. Saxo Bank cyclist Fabian Cancellara won the prologue, and is the race leader of the 750-mile (1,207-km), nine-day stage race. REUTERS/Max Whittaker (UNITED STATES)

Reuters

Lance Armstrong stands on the awards platform after being presented with an honorary jersey at the Amgen Tour of California prolouge cycle race in Sacramento, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009.(AP Photo/Steve Yeater)

Lance Armstrong, right, is greeted onstage by California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger after the Amgen Tour of California prolouge cycle race in Sacramento, Calif., on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009.(AP Photo/Steve Yeater)

SACRAMENTO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Lance Armstrong of USA, riding for Astana, signs autographs for fans after competing in the Prologue of the AMGEN Tour of California on February 14, 2009 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Lance Armstrong

Getty Images

Lance Armstrong Has Bike Stolen, Tweets About It originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 17:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Abandons Anti-Dope Testing Before It Begins

Shane Bacon — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:02:00 EST

Filed under: PEDs, Cycling

In the wake of the Alex Rodriguez admission to steroid use, you'd think athletes are doing whatever they can to keep their name and steroids as far apart as possible, especially if they've been questioned in the past.

Not the case for seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, who, after announcing his comeback to cycling, claimed that he would be undergoing some comprehensive testing by Don Catlin, basically the Tiger Woods of anti-doping scientists. The tests were to be extremely strict and available for everyone on the Internet, but have since been canceled without Catlin ever getting a chance to test Armstrong even once.

"In the real world, when you try to implement a program as grandiose as what you had in mind, it just becomes so complicated that it's better not to try," Catlin said, adding that a contract with Armstrong had never been signed. "We're all disappointed, but it's just not going to be possible."

Basically, the story explains that in a world where testing cyclists is now even more important than ever, having such an intense assignment to just one athlete is too much for either party to handle. Armstrong announced on his Twitter page that as of Feb. 4, he has been tested 16 times, and will continue to be tested by the International Cycling Union and the United States Anti-Doping Agency.

As you probably can assume, people are a little suspect of this thing not working out.

Dick Pound, former chief of the World Anti-Doping Agency, last week said: "Armstrong made all the big announcements and the testing has dropped right off the radar. No sign that anything is actually getting done."

From the article, it appears it was just more trouble than the whole thing was worth. The "making it public on the Internet" thing was solid in theory but proved to be a burden when concern arose that normal people, like you and I that don't speak Biology lingo, wouldn't totally understand that charts and might make false assumptions.

As for the testing, Catlin said he couldn't even find a spot during Armstrong's race in Australia to test the American rider.

"There are so many people lining up to test cyclists right now," Catlin said. "We tried to do one sample in Australia, but we didn't even get that done because it was so hectic. There are practical issues, but I think someday that will change."

I guess being really good at something these days just isn't enough. If you're good, you must have cheated and if you didn't cheat the system, you cheated the results. I guess when on a bike, there is no "innocent until proven guilty" business. There's just guilty.

Lance Armstrong Abandons Anti-Dope Testing Before It Begins originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:02:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Rides Again, Not Well

Shane Bacon — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:39:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Michael Jordan came back to the Bulls after baseball and was an absolute hero. He led Chicago to three championships and went from Hall-of-Famer to Best Player Ever.

Jordan also came back one too many times when he joined the Wizards. It was ugly. He wasn't the same guy, and the lasting image was him front-rimming a dunk he couldn't put down in the All-Star game. Yikes.

Hopefully Lance Armstrong will be different, despite returning to professional cycling to win his eighth Tour de France this summer. His first competition? Australia. His performance after Day One? Down under (Get it?).

Blast-furnace style winds lifted temperatures above 103 degrees and tested even the most fit riders, almost all of them younger than Armstrong. Though the 37-year-old officially finished 120th of 133 riders, he was happy with his first day.

Happy because he didn't finish 121, or just happy that he survived the temperatures? I'm confused. Ending the day near the bottom of a 133-person field isn't exactly going to get bands to play music for you.

"I feel better," he said "It's nice to get one under way and tomorrow's another hard day. I want to take it day by day but I think the early indications are that I feel pretty good, pretty strong."

Oh, alrighty. That makes sense. It is the first day of a long haul to get yourself in race shape and I'm sure one tournament in Australia isn't going to make or break your training. I would like to see a top-100 finish though, just for morale in this country. We're rooting for you. If it wasn't for you, the only thing I'd know about cycling is, 'it must be a law that, when on a bike, you must wear the tightest clothes imaginable.'

Lance Armstrong

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, of the U.S. speaks to media after completing the first stage of the Tour Down Under cycling race in Adelaide, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. The stage, American Lance Armstrong's first since resuming his professional cycling career, was won by reigning champion, German Andre Greipel. (AP Photo/Aman Sharma)

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, of the U.S. reacts before the start of the first stage of the Tour Down Under cycling race in Adelaide, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. The stage, American Lance Armstrong's first since resuming his professional cycling career, was won by reigning champion, German Andre Greipel. (AP Photo/Aman Sharma)

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, of the U.S. reacts after completing the first stage of the Tour Down Under cycling race in Adelaide, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. The stage, American Lance Armstrong's first since resuming his professional cycling career, was won by reigning champion, German Andre Greipel. (AP Photo/Aman Sharma)

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong (L) of the US smiles with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (R) after completing stage one of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide on January 20, 2009. Armstrong completed his official comeback from retirement with an easy, and at times impressive, day of racing here in the first stage of the Tour Down Under. AFP PHOTO / Jamie McDONALD (Photo credit should read JAMIE MCDONALD/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong (L) of the US shares a laugh with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (R) after completing stage one of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide on January 20, 2009. Armstrong completed his official comeback from retirement with an easy, and at times impressive, day of racing here in the first stage of the Tour Down Under. AFP PHOTO / Jamie McDONALD (Photo credit should read JAMIE MCDONALD/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong of the US rides during stage one of of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide on January 20, 2009. Armstrong completed his official comeback from retirement with an easy, and at times impressive, day of racing here in the first stage of the Tour Down Under. AFP PHOTO / Jamie McDONALD (Photo credit should read JAMIE MCDONALD/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Reigning champion of the Tour Down Under, German Andre Greipel (C), wins stage one of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide on January 20, 2009. US cyclist Lance Armstrong completed his official comeback from retirement with an easy, and at times impressive, day of racing here in the first stage of the Tour Down Under. AFP PHOTO / Jamie McDONALD (Photo credit should read JAMIE MCDONALD/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong (L) of the US stands with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (R) after completing stage one of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide on January 20, 2009. Armstrong completed his official comeback from retirement with an easy, and at times impressive, day of racing here in the first stage of the Tour Down Under. AFP PHOTO / Jamie McDONALD (Photo credit should read JAMIE MCDONALD/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Lance Armstrong Rides Again, Not Well originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:39:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Hints at the Possibility of Politics in His Future After Cycling

Will Brinson — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling, Sports Media, Current Events

Lance Armstrong is an American superhero, at least worthy of the same status as Jesse Ventura and Arnold Schwarzenegger, so, really, it should come as no surprise that when he gets finished ~~slaughtering the competition~~ riding in the 2009 Tour de France, he may consider a career in politics.

And although 2010 may be too soon to see Lance run (I can't wait for the political "ride" puns), he's at least interested/concerned, based on a recent interview with Mark McKinnon in The Daily Beast.

Is there a future for Lance Armstrong in politics?

If you feel like you can do the job better than people who are doing it now, and you can really make a difference, then that's a real calling to serve, and I think you have to do that. I felt a strong desire to come back and race right now because I felt we had a place and I could have a real impact and that's why I'm doing it. I don't think you want to enter political life unless you really think you can really have an impact. Don't do it for a bet, or a dare or for your ego. Or for any other competitive desire you have. Do it because you can get in there and change people's lives. That's why you do it. So, there will come a time, or not, that I say to myself, "You know what, I can help affect change." And if that day comes, then absolutely.

Okay, so that's not absolutely set in stone, but still, he's interested. Here's the thing about famous people and politics: it's a fantastic mix if the rational for entering the political realm is what Lance refers to above: AFFECTING POSITIVE CHANGE.

If the campaigning and whatnot is simply for the purpose of "Hey, this seems like something that would be awesome to do since I'm bored" then, well, yeah, that's just annoying. Hopefully Lance doesn't become the latter.

Oh, and super-awesome bonus: constituents will get to provide input via Twitter! Right?

Lance Armstrong Hints at the Possibility of Politics in His Future After Cycling originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong, With One Strong Testicle, Knocks Up Girlfriend

Shane Bacon — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

My dad once told me something I've kept with me for years and years -- "Why do with two testicles what you can get done with one?"

Lance Armstrong took that advice to heart, impregnating his girlfriend ~~Ashley Olsen~~ Anna Hansen, who is expecting a baby in June.

All jokes aside (because I actually think Lance is awesome), this is pretty good news for testicular cancer patients. According to the CNN report, Armstrong and ex-wife Kristin Richards tried to have a kid after Armstrong went through chemotherapy but couldn't because of his testicular cancer. Armstrong and Richards did have three children using sperm the cyclist had donated before the treatment, though.

"This is a hopeful thing for testicular cancer survivors," CNN medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta said. "It means his body healed from the chemotherapy and surgery."

This isn't the only thing on Lance's plate this summer. Our main cycling man has announced he is planning on riding in the Tour de France again after retiring in 2005. Now, even if he doesn't return home with the yellow jersey, he will have a prize wrapped in either pink or blue.

Congrats Lance and Anna, if you guys were actually trying to get pregnant. If not, damn. I know what to stuff your stockings with this Christmas.

After the jump is how I believe the news went down between Lance and Anna (NSFW, but if you work on Christmas Eve, do you really care?).

Lance Armstrong, With One Strong Testicle, Knocks Up Girlfriend originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Will Race in the 2009 Tour de France, It Says So on His Twitter Page

Shane Bacon — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:42:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Wikipedia, in its simple way of explaining things so I can understand them, defines Twitter as this -- "Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service, that allows its users to send and read other users' updates (otherwise known as tweets), which are text-based posts of up to 140 characters in length."

Honestly, no knock on Twitter but I have never visited the site before in my life (even though we have a page!). Well, Twitter is known now for more than just a collection of TWEETS. Lance Armstrong made the announcement (dated December 2, 2008 for some reason) that he will be racing in the 2009 Tour de France. Mini-blogging and news breaking!

"Just did an interview with AP announcing I am doing the Tour de France in 2009," is what the Tweet said about 3 PM EST time on December 1.

Well, besides the country of France, who hates Lance for no real reason except they think he cheats, this has to be good news for cycling. Like Tiger Woods return to golf, cycling has been in a lull since Armstrong left the sport after winning seven consecutive Tour de France.

Armstrong has said he's in as good a shape at this point in his training as he has ever been, so that is something. He's also announced his concern with the safety of the race but that won't deter him from peddling as fast as his body will allow. I'm not much into comeback stories because most disappoint, but if Lance won this thing I'm not really sure there would be a story in the history of sports that could compare.

I guess it's time for Livestrong bracelets to make a comeback?

Lance Armstrong Will Race in the 2009 Tour de France, It Says So on His Twitter Page originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:42:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Fears Personal Safety at '09 Tour de France

Shane Bacon — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:49:00 EST

Filed under: International Cycling, Cycling

To Americans, Lance Armstrong is a hero. He's a man that not only beat cancer, but went on to beat thousands of cyclists for seven straight years at the Tour de France, a feat never accomplished before in the sport's biggest race.

To everyone else, Armstrong is a cheat. Countries see him as an American that found an edge that still can't be traced. They see him as a guy that has a little too much dirt under his fingernails that one day will be revealed, like a sports figure with a Joker jersey on under his cycling gear.

Because of that, Armstrong has professed fear for his personal safety if he decides to enter the 2009 Tour de France, the first time he would be competing in the event since his final victory in 2005.

"I don't want to enter an unsafe situation but you see this stuff coming out of France," said the American rider, who has many critics in France. "They're some aggressive, angry emotions. If you believe what you read, my personal safety could be in jeopardy."

It is worth noting that the country in question here is France (which, when speaking of violent acts, always brings me back to this video), even if the people do seem to get heated when talking about Lance and his dominance over their big sporting event.

While cycling attacks are few and far between, we have to remember that the French have been out to get this guy for a while. In early October we reported that Lance was being brought under investigation by an Anti-Doping agency in France about urine samples dating all the way back to 1999. One of his urine samples came back positive for some sort of illegal substance but it was all messed up because you need two sets of tests to come up positive to prove anything. Since that dates back to '99, the other test had been tossed out so basically the agency had a foundation to build on but no supplies for the house.

Armstrong did say that while critics continue to ride him about doping, he has and will continue to have nothing to hide.

"I understand people in France and in cycling might have that perception, but the reality is that there's nothing there," he said. "The level of scrutiny I've had throughout my career from the press and the anti-doping authorities is unmatched. I'm not afraid of anything. I've got nothing to hide. I won seven Tours through hard work.

To steer away from safety for a minute, Armstrong did say he feels that he is in the best shape he's been in at this point in training ever, even saying he feels as motivated as he did in 1999 when coming back from cancer.

"I'm much better physically now," he said at his home in Austin, Texas. "And mentally there is no comparison. I'm far stronger and more motivated. The motivation of 2008 feels like the motivation of 1999. I was back from cancer then. I had the motivation of vengeance because nobody wanted me or believed in me."

While I find it rather remarkable, and possibly a little fishy, that a guy could come back from testicular cancer and a germ cell tumor that metastasized to his lungs and brain and become one of, if not the, greatest cyclist of all time, nothing has ever been dug up on the guy, so you have to give him the benefit of the doubt.

While comebacks are normally a lot of hype and little success, it seems if Armstrong puts his mind to something he normally succeeds. What, you think he just happened to run into Sheryl Crow on the streets of Austin? This dude's life has basically been that "Strong Enough to Be My Man" song.

Lance Armstrong Fears Personal Safety at '09 Tour de France originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:49:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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French Anti-Doping Agency Wants Lance Armstrong's Urine Samples ... From 1999

Shane Bacon — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: International Cycling, Cycling

The moment cycling's Tiger Woods announced he was coming back to race again, doping issues have exploded.

Will Lance Armstrong take substances to help train? Will he take substances during the races? What substances will he take?

Well, it turns out, the French anti-doping agency wants to take samples of Armstrong's urine from all the way back in 1999, the year rumors swirled that Lance's urine had failed portions of a drug test. Stupid urine, you can't pass anything anymore!

The French anti-doping authority has thrown down a challenge to the seven-time Tour de France champion, proposing he agree to retesting of his 1999 urine samples to see whether a French newspaper was right when it reported they contained traces of EPO, a banned blood-boosting hormone that enhances endurance.

A positive test from the samples could not lead to a ban that would thwart the 37-year-old's much-heralded return to cycling after three years in retirement. Too much time has passed for disciplinary measures to be taken and only part of Armstrong's samples were kept.
Even so, the proposal renews debate about one of the most contested questions surrounding Armstrong: whether he was clean when he won.

The biggest snag is they want urine samples from 1999, where only one portion of the test still exist. Not like I'm a urine expert (swear) but supposedly when being tested your urine is divided into two samples, the "A" and "B" samples. Both samples have to show a banned substance for you to fail, and the only ones remaining from Lance's 1999 pee is "B." So, if they test it and it comes up showing something banned, it will still not be confirmed because there is zero "A" samples. Whew, that's a lot to stomach, now I know why it's tough to land that job teaching "Urine Testing 101" at Fort Manor Community College.

The president of the French anti-doping agency, Pierre Bordry, said he wants to be the intermediary in this whole situation, even though, you know, he already thinks Armstrong doped.

Quoted by L'Equipe, Pierre Bordry said he wanted to act as "a referee" between the newspaper and Armstrong. But Bordry already seemed to have an opinion, speaking to the newspaper of samples "which contain erythropoietin [EPO]."

"I want this comeback to take place in the best circumstances," L'Equipe quoted him as saying in its Wednesday edition. "If he agrees, we'll launch the operation."

He added: "This way, he will perhaps have the chance to affirm that he never cheated during his brilliant career."

It sure is hard to know if Armstrong ever doped or not, but I hate all the negative attention on the guy after he said he's coming back mainly to "raise awareness of the global cancer burden." Also, his new team, Astana, is hiring a drug-testing expert to follow the seven-time Tour de France winner around and continually keep his test updated and posted online.

The French have always had it out for this guy, but honestly, in our country you're innocent until proven guilty. Maybe it's time they accept the same set of ideals.

French Anti-Doping Agency Wants Lance Armstrong's Urine Samples ... From 1999 originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lance Armstrong Tells David Letterman He's Ready for Drug Accusations

Michael David Smith — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:20:00 EST

Filed under: TV and Movies, Cycling

Lance Armstrong appeared on David Letterman last night, and the subject turned -- as it always does in every Armstrong interview -- to performance-enhancing drugs:

Letterman asked about the critics who say Armstrong is a cheater and said, "They will say, 'Oh, he's doing well four years later because he's using some mysterious chemical.' Are you prepared for that?"

Armstrong replied, "Oh, yeah, very. That's been a big part of my life. I've dealt with it for the last decade."

Armstrong then added that he can "prove" that he's clean.

I don't think he's ever going to have the "proof" to convince everyone that he's clean, but he wants to convince as many people as he can.

Lance Armstrong Tells David Letterman He's Ready for Drug Accusations originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Lance Armstrong Coming Out of Retirement, Will Ride in 2009 Tour de France

Michael David Smith — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:08:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling

Lance Armstrong will come out of retirement and compete in the 2009 Tour de France, the competitive cycling journal Velo News is reporting.

Sports Stars Who Fought Cancer

Lance Armstrong survived his bout with testicular cancer and went on to win seven consecutive Tour de France titles. Reports now suggest the American is planning a comeback. Click through to see other sports figures who have battled cancer.

Peter Dejong, AP

Swimmer Eric Shanteau found out he had testicular cancer a week before qualifying for the Olympic team, but he postponed treatment so he could compete in Beijing. After coming up short in his bid to win a medal in the men's 200-meter breaststroke he returned home and underwent surgery.

Jed Jacobsohn, Getty Images

Former NBA player Wayman Tisdale, seen here in 2006, had part of his leg amputated because of bone cancer. "This may sound drastic, but I have put it in God's hands and now have peace, knowing that this is the best way to put this disease in check," he said.

Brad Barket, Getty Images

Jim Calhoun underwent 33 radiation sessions over the summer to battle skin cancer, and now the UConn hoops coach expects to be recovered in time for the new season.

Ned Dishman, Getty Images

Maarten van der Weijden, who was given only a slim chance of survival after being diagnosed with leukemia in 2001, swims past the favorites to win a gold medal in one of the most grueling events of the Olympics.

Robert F Bukaty, AP

Bruce Snyder, who has coached football at Arizona State, California and Utah State, admitted in July that he has cancer through a statement released by Arizona State's sports information office.

Tom Hauck, Getty Images

Bobby Murcer, who was one of the most popular figures in Yankees history, died of brain cancer on July 12. He had been diagnosed with the disease on Christmas Eve of 2006.

Julie Jacobson, AP

Less than two months after his surgery for thyroid cancer, Diamondbacks pitcher Doug Davis made a triumphant return to the mound on May 23, giving up only one run in seven innings.

John Bazemore, AP

Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester survived a treatable form of large cell lymphoma in late 2006, which is now in remission. Lester, who also won the deciding game of the 2007 World Series, hurled the first no-hitter of 2008 against the Royals on May 19.

Charles Krupa, AP

Former Tennessee star Chris Lofton said he underwent treatment for testicular cancer after a random drug test at the 2007 NCAA Tournament revealed he potentially had a tumor.

Streeter Lecka, Getty Images

The report, citing "sources familiar with the developing situation," says:

Armstrong, who turns 37 this month, will compete in the Amgen Tour of California, Paris-Nice, the Tour de Georgia, the Dauphine-Libere and the Tour de France - and will race for no salary or bonuses, the sources, who asked to remain anonymous, told VeloNews.

Armstrong's manager, Mark Higgins, did not respond to questions.

However sources close to the story have told VeloNews that an exclusive article on the matter will be published in an upcoming issue of Vanity Fair, expected later this month.

Rumors of Armstrong's return swirled at last week's Eurobike trade show in Germany and this week's Tour of Missouri.

In an effort to prove that he doesn't use performance-enhancing drugs, Armstrong will reportedly post information about his blood tests online.

Lance Armstrong

In this photo provided by Alex Fenlon, Lance Armstrong crosses the finish line of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008, in Leadville, Colo. Armstrong finished second. (AP Photo/Alex Fenlon) ** NO SALES **

In this photo provided by Alex Fenlon, Dave Wiens, left, leads Lance Armstrong as they approach the halfway point of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008, in Leadville, Colo. Wiens went on to win the race, with Armstrong second. (AP Photo/Alex Fenlon) ** NO SALES **

In this photo provided by Alex Fenlon, Dave Wiens, left, leads Lance Armstrong just after the halfway point of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008, in Leadville, Colo. Wiens went on to win the race, with Armstrong second. (AP Photo/Alex Fenlon) ** NO SALES **

In this photo provided by Alex Fenlon, Dave Wiens crosses the finish line of the Leadville 100 mountain bike race on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008, in Leadville, Colo. Lance Armstrong finished second. (AP Photo/Alex Fenlon) ** NO SALES **

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, founder and chairman of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, particiaptes in a press conference titled a "national call to action on cancer prevention and survivorship" on July 23, 2008 at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. AFP PHOTO/Tim SLOAN (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Lance Armstrong, founder and chairman of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, speaks at a press conference titled a "National Call to action on Cancer Prevention and Survivorship" on July 23, 2008 at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. AFP PHOTO / TIM SLOAN (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Former US Surgeon General Antonia Novelloon (L) speaks, as cyclist Lance Armstrong (2nd-L), founder and chairman of the Lance Armstrong Foundation; former Surgeon General Richard Carmona (C), former Surgeon General David Satcher (2nd-R) and former Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders listen during a press conference titled a "National Call to action on Cancer Prevention and Survivorship" on July 23, 2008 at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. AFP PHOTO / TIM SLOAN (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

US George Hincapie (Columbia/US), national champion (1998-2006), and the only rider who rode with compatriot Lance Armstrong in each of his seven Tour de France victories, competes, on July 8 2008, during the 29-km individual time-trial and fourth stage of the 2008 Tour de France cycling race run around Cholet. German Stefan Schumacher (Gerolsteiner/Ger) clocked in 35mn44sec. AFP PHOTO PASCAL PAVANI (Photo credit should read PASCAL PAVANI/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

US George Hincapie (Colombia/US), national champion (1998-2006) and the only rider who rode with compatriot Lance Armstrong in each of his seven Tour de France victories, poses during a press conference presenting the new jersey of US cycling team Colombia (ex-High Road), on July 4 2008 in Brest, Brittany, western France, on the eve of the start of the 2008 Tour de France cycling race. Running from Saturday July 5th to Sunday July 27th 2008, the 95th Tour de France will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,500 kilometres. AFP PHOTO PASCAL PAVANI (Photo credit should read PASCAL PAVANI/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

US George Hincapie (Colombia/US) (4th L), national champion (1998-2006) and the only rider who rode with compatriot Lance Armstrong in each of his seven Tour de France victories, poses with teammates during a press conference presenting the new jersey of US cycling team Colombia (ex-High Road), on July 4 2008 in Brest, Brittany, western France, on the eve of the start of the 2008 Tour de France cycling race. Running from Saturday July 5th to Sunday July 27th 2008, the 95th Tour de France will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,500 kilometres. AFP PHOTO PASCAL PAVANI (Photo credit should read PASCAL PAVANI/AFP/Getty Images)

AFP/Getty Images

Report: Lance Armstrong Coming Out of Retirement, Will Ride in 2009 Tour de France originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:08:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Floyd Landis Loses Appeal, Must Pay $100K for U.S. Anti-Doping Agency's Legal Fees

Michael David Smith — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:03:00 EST

Filed under: Cycling, PEDs

Floyd Landis, who won the 2006 Tour de France only to have his title stripped when he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs, has lost his final appeal of that positive drug test.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissed his appeal today and also ruled that he must pay $100,000 to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency to compensate the group for its legal fees related to Landis's appeal, although it's unclear whether the Court of Arbitration for Sport has the authority to enforce such a fine, or whether Landis -- who hasn't been able to earn a living in cycling since 2006 and has spent a fortune in legal fees for himself -- even has $100,000.

Landis's two-year suspension from cycling was upheld as well. Oscar Pereiro is now considered the 2006 Tour de France winner. The 2008 Tour begins this weekend.

Floyd Landis Loses Appeal, Must Pay $100K for U.S. Anti-Doping Agency's Legal Fees originally appeared on Back Porch FanHouse on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:03:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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