LAMAZE NO CHEATER

Step back from the self righteous sentiment, the pathetic platitudes, the
simpering slogan, "Just say no to drugs" and ridiculous rhetoric, "What are
we going to tell our children?" or "What about the integrity of the Games?"
and look at Eric Lamaze objectively.

A judge has overruled his ban for cocaine use. The reasons are good. Eric
was devastated by the belief that he was already banned from the Olympics
for taking a herbal supplement. He was under no obligation or need to keep
his body free of drugs. Eric was devastated and he took solace in cocaine.

He is still a fantastic show jumper, just as Bill Clinton is still a
fantastic president even after his moral failings have been revealed.

Eric Lamaze did not cheat. To cheat is to deceive others for one's own
gain. Lamaze was not trying to deceive anyone. He took cocaine because he
believed he would not be able to compete for our great country.

Forget the slippery slope argument. We must look at each case individually.

Disregard the pathetic piety, Eric, and go for the gold!

Dan Martin

Richmond Hill