Cancer survivor, inspirational cyclist, husband, and father, Lance Armstrong has inspired millions of Americans for decades. His seven Tour de France medals signified the astronomical achievements for a man that overcame testicular cancer. Opening up charity foundations and publicizing the world-renown wristband “livestrong”, Armstrong was considered invincible and symbolized America’s slogan – “Never give up”. It was not until 2010 that Armstrong was driven back to Earth from his immortal status.
Floyd Landis, former teammate of Lance Armstrong, accused Armstrong of doping in 2002 and 2003 after being found guilty himself. Although there were no records left claiming Landis was correct in his statement, there is evidence that shows Landis bought a blood testing machine back in 2002. After these initial allegations, a string of former teammates and cyclists have come out in defense of Landis and not Armstrong. Whether these allegations are true, Armstrong’s image took a defiant hit and America would never look at him the same again.
And today, Lance Armstrong has been stripped of his seven Tour de France titles and will no longer be able to participate in professional cycling again. In addition, Nike, Anheuser Busch, and Trek Bicycles cut ties with the former cycler amidst the doping allegations. “Lance Armstrong has no place in cycling; he deserves to be forgotten in cycling,” Pat McQuaid, president of the cycling union, said. “Something like this must never happen again.”
Lance Armstrong, once a revered cancer survivor, is now perceived as a “cheater”. Unless these allegations come out to be fictitious, Armstrong will forever be remembered for his inability to reveal the truth. Interesting how Armstrong’s situation resembles that of another revered man in sports. Joe Paterno’s fall to shambles closely resembles Armstrong’s fall from grace. Paterno did not have the opportunity to speak for his actions/no actions. Will Armstrong share the same fate as Paterno or will the former seven time Tour de France winner shake off these allegations?