I am truly saddened by all that has transpired with Lance Armstrong – in the peloton, as well as off the bike & away from cycling. I am sad about the lives that were impacted and the relationships left in shambles. I feel sad for those who believed so strongly in his story.

That said, in the end, it is not my place to judge right or wrong (please understand – I am not implying that anyone here is judging). I will sit back and see what transpires over the next several months. There is tremendous potential for Lance to “make good’ on that which has taken place. I hope he uses this opportunity in a positive format. A persons character can be defined by what he does in the face of adversity.

This past Monday, the “water cooler gang” held a highly charged conversation Ray Lewis (of the Baltimore Ravens). Some placed Ray on a pedestal, while others see him as a thug. I was asked my thoughts – and I replied that it didn’t really phase me, as this was a big football game and the media was looking for stories to fill the next two weeks. In the end, I shared that while the NFL was entertaining, it wasn’t curing cancer.

And yet Lance has been “curing cancer” (well, trying anyway…). In my opinion, Lance’s involvement with Live Strong is commendable and as difficult as it may be, I feel we should be recognized separate & away from his peloton shenanigans.

In the end – whether it be Lance Armstrong, Ray Lewis or any other high profile public figure – we form our opinions based on information from the media. We can and should safely assume there is much information surrounding Lance that we don’t know and/or fully understand.

I think of you and your family often, my friend – and look forward to catching up soon.

Peace,
Woody

What an awesome comment! Love it. I hope you guys are well and Mark is doing everything that he is told…..

You guys are champions… and and you always will be. You help dreams come true.

All the best to Lin-Mark!

The most painful thing about a “fallen champion” such as Lance Armstrong. . . . Is how long and how much he denied. Years and years of it. At what cost? His integrity. His total persona. Yes we are not perfect, but life is a challenge on all levels, until the light goes out. He closed that light. Now only he can open it. We will see what he is made of now.

Because “they all did it?” That gave him an excuse. NO. A true champion comes from within. I do not think he has it from “within.” Thousands of us donate, give, volunteer, reach out a helping hand in so many ways. Do not receive recognition, nor expect it. These people are the true champions. You are a champion. The parent who gives, works, supports, yet finds time to be a week-end warrior, they are champions.

The Special Olympics & their volunteers, the physically challenged, a man swimming the GCBS 4.4 open water swim, with no arms or legs – he is a champion.

I have seen so many champions at the finish lines over the years, none looking for the glory of Lance Armstrong which was never satisfied.

Still a sadness from within for all he could have been, could have inspired, could have changed his sport if he loved it so much . . . I guess not enough.

Shep Messing
Managing Director
Global Sport Group, LLC