LET LAMAZE COMPETE

Re: "The missing man," George Johnson, Opinion, June 7.

I cannot agree with the Spruce Meadows staff who have banned Eric
Lamaze from their facility because he was caught using an illegal substance.

The nature of recovery from addiction includes relapse. I do not feel
he should be banned for life as long as he is trying to stay on top of
his problem.

If the problem is that cocaine is an illegal substance, perhaps some
of the rest of the riders, to say nothing of the people who go to
Spruce Meadows, should be tested for marijuana use. It is also an
illegal substance, one used by a large percentage of the population.

As for Eric, I am glad to hear he is doing well and still able to
participate in the sport in which he excels at other facilities.

Our loss is their gain.

Chris A. Marriott
Calgary