Anticipating the future of doping in sport
Friday, March 21, 2014 - 07:40
in Health & Medicine
Doping in sport is nothing new. Ancient Greek athletes used stimulating potions to fortify themselves. Strychnine, caffeine, cocaine, and alcohol were regularly used by cyclists in the 19th century. Marathon champion Thomas Hicks ran to victory at the 1904 Olympic Games with the help of raw egg, injections of strychnine and doses of brandy administered to him during the race. During the 20th century doping became increasingly commonplace, leading not only to unfair competition, but also to the tragic deaths of top athletes. WADA - the World Anti-Doping Agency - was established 15 years ago with the mission of promoting, coordinating and monitoring the fight against doping in sport.