The Softer Side of Steroids
The Tour de France was thrown into chaos when Riccardo Ricco was thrown out of the race after testing positive to the blood booster Erythropoietin, otherwise known as EPO. His urine also contained traces of an equally banned substance CERA, according to the New York Times.
Ricco is the dual stage winner who excels specifically in the mountain stages of the race. The positive tests are an unwelcome step backward to a sport trying to rebuild a clean image after the drug scandals of 2005 and 2006.
Steroids are usually associated with the bulky, testosterone-ridden competitors in football and baseball. It may appear odd that cycling has amassed so many cases. However, ESPN Author Shaun Asseal, highlights why the effect of steroids are especially advantageous for cycling. It’s not always about simply building more muscle. It’s important to remember that steroids are also used to speed up recovery.
