Every four years the world is treated to the exciting and competitive events of the Winter Olympics. We cheer for our country in the parade of nations, admire the skill of athletes on the snow and ice, and enjoy the stories of winning athletes. However, each Olympic Games also brings less enjoyable stories. It seems that every Olympic Games brings with it the allegation of steroid use and the 2010 Vancouver games are unlikely to be an exception.
This year those responsible for enforcing the no steroids rule are looking for new sophisticated ways in which athletes may try and cheat in order to win. In past years, athletes have created “designer” steroids that escape testing – at least at first.
Every athlete spends years in intense training in preparation for the Winter Olympics. Is taking steroids worth the risk? Is it worth it to make the kind of sacrifices and participate in the dedicated training necessary to be an Olympian and then to have your medal win rendered worthless by steroids?
This question is not unique to Olympians. Every athlete – from middle school to the Olympics – should be asking themselves the same questions. Despite the prevalence of steroids, steroids can ruin your health, your reputation and your future.
This year, we hope that the Winter Olympians set a good example and show the world what can be accomplished with hard work and dedication – and without steroids. Enjoy the Games!
