Hmmm...I've been thinking...

...and we know how dangerous that can be.

Yesterday, I called Michael Diamond the King of the Douchebags. In the ensuing hours, I have had several conversations with folks I like, and respect.
My opinion of Mr. Diamond may have softened a bit, nearly to the point of being on his side. My opinions of Masters dopers however, remains firm, but I digress.

It seems that Mr. Diamond is a 63 year old enthusiast, rider, and (very) part-time racer. He's a Cat 5. He finished 5th of 9 in the Florida State TT championship...60-65 age group.

Here's where I can agree with his refusal. If you the USADA came up to ME, in the same situation, and demanded a sample, I might just tell them to get fucked on principle. They can't show up at NRC races to do testing, where you KNOW dudes are on the AvGas, but they can spend the $ to come to BFE Florida to test ONE 63 year old guy?
Yeah, F YOU USADA and USA Cycling.

My only standing problem with Mr. Diamond is the fact that rumors are flying in Jacksonville that he had been openly bragging on group rides about his 'doping'. Now, 'doping' to a 63 year old could be Viagra or Cialis. Hey, blood flow is blood flow, right?
Of course, we all know how sorority girl-ish racers can be, so it's also not beyond the realm that someone in the group doesn't like Mr. Diamond, and called the tipline.

Who knows?

If Mr. Diamond WAS taking something, AND finished 5th, AND refused b/c he knew he was dirty, then yes, he's a douchebag.
If he refused out of principle, then good on him...and I'm sorry!