The UCI, the world governing body for cycling, announced that a high profile rider was guilty of using steroids.  Speculation quickly has moved towards Floyd Landis because he has withdrawn from two races since his heroic win at the Tour de France.  Landis' own team, Phonak, has put a memo on its website saying Landis had high testosterone levels during the race.  (I can see why his testosterone level is rising in the photo above!)

What does all this mean?  Where in the world is Floyd Landis?  Is he cleaning his system while in hiding?  Can he really be so stupid as to use steroids while riding?  The answers to all of these questions are sure to come out soon. 

It means that an American may not win the title this year.  It means that cycling is indeed the dirtiest sport on this earth.  It means that Armstrong may have been right to dump Landis from his team.  It means that Landis may never ride again.  It means that if you cheat, you will eventually get caught.  (Unless you are Bonds and Armstrong)  My guess is that he is guilty.  My guess is that he will blame all of this on his ailing hip.  My guess is that his career is finished unless he somehow can prove he is innocent.  Ulrich's team has already let him go sparking possible lawsuits.  The plot thickens, as does the blood when taking EPO. 

Ulrich is a one time tour winner and a five time runner up to Lance Armstrong.  Basso, another strong contender during Lance's heyday,  is also suspected by the UCI.  One thing you can say about Lance, even if he did use steroids, he was never caught.  Sounds a lot like Barry Bonds!

SoCalSportsFan

*Since posting this report, more has come out about Landis positive test.  We now know that team Phonak has suspended him until his second sample can be tested.  I also find it ironic that they will not come right out and say Landis tested positive for steroids until his second sample is checked, but in the case of Armstrong, he was accused without the second sample.  Granted, they can never test his second sample because all of his samples were used up in their ongoing witch hunt.

Also, interesting to note, Landis' mother said she would be very disappointed in her son if he did steroids, but she understands the temptations are out there.  These are devout Mennonites and very hard working people.  I hope Landis is innocent, but this case is snowballing fast and it is beginning to look like an avalanche.*