Light the Torch – Beijing Olympics and Other Olympic News

Doping, Medal-stripping and Marion Jones

by Sasha Manuel on October 5th, 2007

Washington (dpa) - Former sprint star Marion Jones has reportedly finally ended years of doping denials and could be stripped of Olympic and world championship gold medals as a result.

The International Olympic Committee and the ruling athletics body IAAF said on Friday they were awaiting further details and will investigate if Jones formally admits to doping.

Jones famously won three golds and two bronze at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. She also has five world titles 1997-2001.

(Source)

IOC Statement on Marion Jones

The IOC has learnt about Marion Jones’s intention to plead guilty to lying to federal agents about her use of performance-enhancing substances during her career.

Since 2004, the IOC has had an open file on the BALCO case – it set up a Disciplinary Commission with a view to investigating how the case might have affected Olympic Games’ competitions. Progress to date has been slow due to difficulties in gathering findings. The information that Marion Jones might provide later today may prove to be key in moving this case forward.

Now it makes you think — does cutting corners make everything all worth it? Winning the all those medals would automatically mean an honour that transcends your own lifetime. It’s a sure-fire ticket to textbooks or history books. It’s a legacy you leave behind.

This Marion Jones fiasco is a classic example that the end doesn’t justify the means. Jones held the medal but was she truly an Olympic and World Champion in her sport?

Photo credit: www.belizeans.com/marionjones/

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