Old Folks And Steroids Is Apparently A Problem Now

PED use among our elderly athletes: are we overreacting to an appropriate degree, or could we stand to overreact even more?

Metformin HCl. Glipizide. Lisinopril. Viagra. All these and more are found in the drug cabinet of one of our nation's senior middle-distance runners. And who cares if they're the only things keeping him alive? What about the sanctity of the game?

The Times takes an in-depth look at steroid use by competitors in USA Track & Field's Masters Series, focusing on the 70-to-90-year-olds. The report gives no answers because it doesn't particularly raise any questions. Are there prohibited substances taken by the old folks? Sure. Do they need these drugs for medical purposes? Probably.

USA Track & Field doesn't test for PEDs because of the cost, but at international competitions they're more stringent. Take 56-year-old sprinter Kathy Jager, who was disqualified after testing positive for anabolic steroids. The one prescribed to her as part of her treatment for menopause.

I'm sure there are folks taking something like Manny," Mr. Snyder said, referring to Manny Ramirez, the baseball player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who this year was suspended 50 games for violating the sport's drug policy. "But most are using drugs for medical reasons."

I say let 'em play. Most won't outlive a 1-year ban.

For Older Athletes, Drug Question Emerges [NY Times]