Vinokourov WINS 4th stage Tour de Romandie

NESATeL, Switzerland (AP) — Alexander Vinokourov of Kazakhstan won the fourth stage of the Tour de Romandie can move up to second overall behind Russia's Pavel Brutt. Vinokourov sprinted to victory in 3 hours, 47 minutes and 55 seconds, edging left hanging Racing of finalist Mikael Cherel. The Frenchman crossed the line with his right hand raised in protest. Third-placed Tony Martin of Germany finished stage 103 miles from Nesatel to simply Thierrens yards before the main group.Vinokourov moved from fourth in the overall classification and traces Brutt by 32 seconds Saturday, 12.5-mile time trial will run from Aubonne for signal-de-Bougy..

Dr. Ferrari seeks meeting with Italian prosecutor

ROME — Italian physician who was banned once again Adviser education of Lance Armstrong asked for a meeting with a prosecutor investigating fraud in professional cycling. A statement released by his lawyer Tuesday says that Dr. Michele Ferrari would like to respond with Padua Prosecutor Benedetto Roberti "as soon as possibleto clear his position. "Ferrari was cleared on appeal in 2006 criminal charges accusing him of distributing doping products for athletes, but this remains banned for life by the Italian cycling Federation under ruling 2002. statement, Ferrari called 2002 ban "anachronistic and unfair."Armstrong maintains that he severed professional ties with Ferrari in 2004, although a prominent Italian law enforcement official told the Associated Press earlier this month, Armstrong met Ferrari repeatedly in recent years, including has since before last year's Tour de France along with Armstrong recognised quickly by Ferrari officially severing ties nonprofessionally. Italian authorities suspect Ferrari are to work with 20 23–30 top level riders, despite the ban, including Armstrong, and actively pursue this line of research. Roberti has ordered several raids this month throughout Italy involving cyclists are believed to have links with Ferrari. Italian riders who work with the risk doctor bans from three to six months. the legislation imposing employee who is not authorized to speak publicly, because the investigation is still underway, he said that Armstrong met Ferrari frequently during many yearsMoritz, Switzerland, usually in, or in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Ferrari had worked with the seven-time tour winner for several years before the separation of their 2004. Lawyer mark Fabiani said Armstrong earlier this month that Armstrong had not "a business relationship with Dr. Ferrari since 2004but he remains friends with the doctor's family and seeing them every time. Lance last saw Dr. Ferrari around a year ago. "".

 

Castroviejo of Spain WINS prologue Tour de Romandie

MARTIGNY, Switzerland (AP) — Jonathan Castroviejo of Spain won the opening prologue stage of the tour de Romandie on Tuesday, edging Taylor Phinney of the United States earned the Castroviejo. biggest victory of his career covering the course 3 (1.86 miles) in 3-kilometre 42 seconds lepta40.Phinney, faster than only 0.96 seconds. "My colleagues told me to always on bends and I did," said Castroviejo translated comments on the website of the 23-year-old Castroviejo on top a podium in front of young 20-year-old Phinney and 21-year-old Australian Leigh Howard, who was 0.73 back to Time trial specialist third. David Millar of Britain was Fifth, more than two seconds down and leader Alexandre Vinokourov of Kazakhstan Astana was better than the pre-race Favorites in ninth.Cadel Evans of Australia was less than eight seconds to 25th country on his return from a foot injury that forced him to miss the classic one day last week. Bradley Wiggins of Britain tabled by almost 13 seconds Castroviejo and Ivan Basso of Italy was 16 seconds behind.Basso has chosen to ride in the Romandie in preparation for the Tour de France in July, and will skip Giro d'Italia defending his title, when the first of the three-week grand tours season starts next week, the six-day race in Romandie through French-speaking region of Switzerland continues Wednesday with a trek (107.3 miles) EUR 172.6-kilometre from Martigny to Leysin..

Ex-Director Lance Armstrong seeks meeting with Italian prosecutor

ROME (AP) — A banned an Italian doctor who was once Director of Lance Armstrong called for education for a meeting with a prosecutor investigating fraud in professional cycling. By Stefano Ferrari

Lance Armstrong says he severed professional ties with Dr. Michele Ferrari, above, in 2004.

By Stefano Ferrari

Lance Armstrong says he severed professional ties with Dr. Michele Ferrari, above, in 2004.

A statement released by his lawyer Tuesday says that Dr. Michele Ferrari would like to respond with Padua Prosecutor Benedetto Roberti "as soon as possible, in order to clear his position."Ferrari was cleared on appeal in 2006 criminal charges accusing him of distributing doping products for athletes, but this remains banned for life by the Italian cycling Federation under ruling 2002. statement, Ferrari called 2002 ban "anachronistic and unfair."Armstrong maintains that he severed professional ties with Ferrari in 2004, although a prominent Italian law enforcement official told the Associated Press earlier this month that Armstrong met Ferrari repeatedly in recent years, including has since before last year's Tour de France Armstrong acknowledged. along with Ferrari getting non-professionally by severing official ties the Italian authorities. suspect Ferrari are to work with 20 23–30 top level riders, despite the ban, including Armstrong, and actively pursue this line of research. Roberti has ordered several raids this month throughout Italy involving cyclists are believed to have links with Ferrari. Italian riders who work with the risk doctor bans from three to six months the law enforcement officer ... who is not authorized to speak publicly, because the investigation is still underway, he said that Armstrong met Ferrari frequently during many yearsMoritz, Switzerland, usually in, or Monte Carlo, Monaco. Ferrari had worked with the seven-time tour winner for several years before the separation of their 2004. Lawyer mark Fabiani said Armstrong earlier this month that Armstrong had not "a business relationship with Dr. Ferrari since 2004but he remains friends with the doctor's family and seeing them every time. Lance last saw Dr. Ferrari around a year ago. ".

Armstrong joins Bush on ride with injured soldiers

TERLINGUA, Texas — Kenneth Butler touched the metal end of the hand of additive instinctively recalled the horrors that he lived in Iraq. By Heather Leiphart, AP

Former President George w. Bush, left, next to a seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong on April 27, Big Bend Park, Texas.

By Heather Leiphart, AP

Former President George w. Bush, left, next to a seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong on April 27, Big Bend Park, Texas.

Four years after the loss of the edges of the vehicle was hit by a bomb in Baghdad, a retired Army Staff Sergeant took the first opportunity this week to meet former President George w. Bush during the three-day bike ride in West Texas, attended by more than a dozen other wounded veterans and cycling legend Lance Armstrong rode in Bush case for an opportunity to meet with veterans and thank them for their sacrifice. But Butler, he holds no ill will-to the man who sent thousands of Americans war in 2003. "I feel sympathy, "the retired Parachute Infantry squad leader said Wednesday, with a note of melancholy. "It feels like he really cares for us."Bush and 15 injured veterans was joined Wednesday in the final leg of a tour through rugged desert 62.5 miles of trails of Big Bend National Park by Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France champion. Although Bush recognizes struggling to maintain during the TrekHe said he relished the opportunity. "As the Chief Commander, my decision was to be placed in harm's way in the first place, "he said. "I feel a special bond with them and I want to know they will never forget."More than 1,400 US troops have died and more than 11,000 have been injured in Afghanistan if Bush ordered a war against terrorism in 2001. He died more than 3,500 American military personnel and more than 32,000 wounded in Iraq since campaigning began two years later the losses suffered by many veterans and their families asked Armstrong to make a surprise appearance Wednesday to thank the troops for their efforts abroad. sporting feats by Downplaying the fans of sports renowned throughout the country, the native Austin recalled meeting a soldier in Germany, who had just lost his leg and he wanted to set a record for the reconquest of the Walking ability. "Now that is heroic," Armstrong said the cyclist also Different pixels, former President Bush, recalling the sport showed last time rode with them in 2005. "Today started off quickly but then it kind of blew a gasket, Armstrong humour. Bush said 64-year-old retorted: "well, I'm eligible for Medicare the u.s. next year."The former President also was pleased about the inability to keep pace with the veterans whose injuries don't slow down the war. "I so cruel as possible riding and I look over my shoulder and there is a one-legged guy barely breathing. ... I am in awe of our troops, "Bush told the Conference organised by the Wounded Warrior project, a nonprofit organization that helps veterans seriously injured in Afghanistan or Iraq While not cycling., Bush spent time with veterans carriers during the last three days, discussing everything from barbecue to gearbox bicycles.Andy Hatcher, a 27-year-old retired Marine sergeant who lost his right leg in an explosion at Thanksgiving 2004 in Fallujah, said he did not discuss war during a dinner chat with Bush. "This was about riding bicycles, did not accept the tragedy, "said Hatcher. for more information about reprints and permissions, visit our FAQ. Report corrections and clarifications, contact standards editor Brent Jones. For publication in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include your name, telephone number, city and State for verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections. usatoday.com. We have updated the guidelines of the conversation. The changes include a brief overview of the surveillance process and an explanation on how to use the button "report abuse". Read more.

CAS selects table 3-lawyer to hear Contador case

GENEVA — the Court of arbitration for sport, selected a three-man Panel Wednesday to hear the case of Alberto Contador of doping, saying expects a verdict before the Tour de France in July. Israeli cvia Efraim lawyer Barak, will chair the Panelincluding Quentin Byrne-Sutton, Switzerland and Ulrich Haas of Germany has not been picked. CAS a date to hear the case, but plans for a preliminary ruling before the Tour de France which starts on July 2. Contador is the champion. "The written procedure in this topic are likely to be concluded at the end of May. The CAS plans to carry out a hearing in June, which would allow the settlement of the dispute before the end of June, "the Court said in a statement the UCI International Cycling Federation, and the Organization for the World Anti-Doping Agency have appealed doping charges Contador acquittal the Spanish cycling Federation. Defence of Contador a Spanish Court accepted that he accidentally consumed the banned substance clenbuterol by eating infected beef. under CAS rules, each party to the dispute may choose one arbitrator to cooperate with the Court-appointed Chairman of the legal group. Contador selected HaasWhile the UCI and WADA chose Byrne-Sutton. Contador can keep competing until the verdict, and is scheduled to Race in the Giro d'Italia the next week.Haas is one of the most asked arbitrators about CAS approved list and has a history in matters relating to Spanish cycling and clenbuterol. Served as ruled last year that Alejandro Valverde would be banned from riding in Italy using evidence collected by the Spanish policeduring the investigation of Puerto operation.Valverde's legal team sought to join Haas gave the starting signal case, arguing that the advisory work with WADA's objectivity is at stake, but the appeal was rejected by the Supreme Court of Switzerland.Haas, teaching Professor at the University of Zurich, helped the rule for two recent cases of clenbuterol, which burns fat and build muscle. American swimmer Jessica Hardy was ordered to serve a one year ban, even if the CAS accepted last year that it was error for a positive test because that investigated thoroughly the contents of a dietary supplement which later proved to be contaminated. 2009, Haas and his table Adam Seroczynski rejected Polish canoeist to the argues that the positive at the summer Olympics in Beijing was the result of clenbuterol "food tampering" by organizers fed the contaminated meat. ILO expert witness in the case rejected the likelihood of accidental contamination.Haas also participated in the event that an error was found with Olympic the WADA-accredited laboratory in Beijing The CAS Panel restored silver and bronze medals Vadim Devyatovskiy and Ivan Tsikhan, hammer throwers from Belarus who tested positive for high testosterone levels, because the samples were unsuccessful. However, the Panel did not clearly athletes suspicion, insisting the verdict "should not be interpreted as a waiver."Barak under the chairmanship of the first CAS to hear the case of the Champions League matchfixing. The Panel upheld the decision of UEFA to exclude Macedonian club Pobeda from European competitions for eight years and life ban for President of the Club if CAS rules against Contador, is likely to be stripped of his third Tour victory and losing all of its results and prize money earned since the UCI lifted the provisional suspension on Contador won the February. Volta of Catalunya and Vuelta Murcia this year and is a strong opponent of Giro Giro Director Angelo Zomegnan. is concerned about the uncertainty over Contador. "Is the same problem as always, for whoever is in this State, "the AP Zomegnan said last week."By now, Alberto Contador was deleted. "___AP sports writer Andrew Dampf in Rome contributed to this report..

Brutt Russia WINS stage, Tour de Romandie

LEYSIN, Switzerland (AP) — Pavel Brutt of Russia took the overall lead after the Tour de Romandie wins the first stage Saturday crossed the line only Brutt. in 4 hours, 27 minutes, 41 seconds after a Trek 107.3 miles from Martigny to Leysin through rain and winds after midnight rider team Katusha, the 29-year-old broke away from a four-man team near the end to complete 56 seconds before Ukraine's Oleksandr Kuachuk. Branislau Samoilau of Belarus was third.Brutt leads Kuachuk than a minute for the overall standings and Samoilau is another 22 seconds behind the trio was joined by Australian Jack Bobridge in a long breakaway and held in 12 minutes lead to a point at the main group finished. two minutes behind and included Alexander Vinokourov of Kazakhstan, which reached a fifth overall, Damiano Cunego, Cadel Evans of Australia and defending champion Simon Spilak of Slovenia's prologue winner Tuesday., Jonathan Castroviejo, wore the yellow jersey for his birthday, but the Spanish 24-year-old retreat in total 31Finally, from 2: 42 Brutt. The six-day Race continues Thursday with a 106.8-mile Trek starting and finishing in Romont.

Gilbert WINS Liege-Bastogne-Liège

LIÈGE, Belgium (AP) — the Belgian Philippe Gilbert shook off brothers Frank and Andy Schleck in an uphill sprint to win the Liege-Bastogne-Liège classic on Sunday, the fourth victory in two weeks.Gilbert, who come from the victories in the race and Amstel Gold Brabant arrow last week and the Walloon arrow on Wednesday proved unstoppable with a final burst of energy on the final straight when the hill Dominating. there through the woods of Southern Belgium, where he grew upGilbert finished the race, (158-Mile) 255-kilometre, the oldest and one of the most prestigious cycling classic, in 6 hours, 13 minutes and 18 seconds in accordance with provisional timings. "This is by far the best day of my career, "said Gilbert 28-year-old. "It will be difficult to do better. I was savoring every moment. "Gilbert's rhythm in the hills, the destructive strength in sprints and relentless stamina dashed intensity made Gilbert by far the most successful rider this season. "It is as if it had no pedals, "leader Dirk De Wolf said. "Went so smoothly."Basking in splendid sunshine and Tour de France temperatures in the high 20s Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit), which is a favourite is allowed to dominate the early breakaway but trapped with about 20 kilometers (12 miles) to go Brothers Schleck of Luxembourg.Gilbert, fellow Belgian rider Greg Van Avermaet broke away in the penultimate Hill and quickly built up a 50-second lead with only steep Saint-Nicolas hill, about six kilometers (four miles) from the line to go. Gilbert attacked on the final and only Frank Schleck could stay with him after negotiations the climb, but Andy Schleck managed to make up lost ground and to return to the front. Gilbert settled in between the two brothers, retaining the leader to control and monitor each other to make sure that it does not break away behind our backs turned to the. once the final straight, Gilbert turned on the power and easily raced each victoryfinger, before kissing the sky holds upright as he crossed the line.Frank Schleck crossed the line ahead of his brother, Roman Kreuziger of Czech Republic in fourth place, followed by the Colombian Rigoberto Uran and Chris Dane Sorensen. The race was the last of the spring classics, which were marked by the Belgian riders. Nick Nuyens has won the tour of Flanders and Johan van Summeren took the Paris-Roubaix, before Gilbert began running WINS.

Contador WINS time trial Castilla

ZAMORA, Spain (AP)-Alberto Contador won the Vuelta de Castilla and Leon time trial Saturday in The Tour de France champion finished during seven miles in 13 minutes, 42 seconds. With Saxo Bank-edges teammate Richie Porte SunGuard than a second and new overall leader Xavier Tondo of Movistar by two seconds.Contador came as a three-time winner who is looking to defend his title. But he had a pair of tire punctures on two of the first three legs, including near the end of Friday's end to mountaintop drop of contention. "Of course I don't because my overall STANDINGS position today would be different if nothing had happened to me. .. but cycling, "said Contador. "It is better that what is happening in the Vuelta de Castilla and Leon from the Giro (d'Italia)."Contador is nine seconds before the Dutch opponent Mollema with a total time 13: 31.40 going into Sunday's final stage. overnight leader Bauke Mollema of Rabobank was 15 seconds slower than Contador for fourth place.

CAS wants to combine WADA, UCI appeals case Contador

Of GENEYIS (AP) — Supreme Court of sport is to ask the World Anti-Doping Agency and International Cycling Union to combine their forces against Alberto Contador appeals acquittal of doping charges. By Josep Lago, AFP/Getty Images

Alberto Contador of doping control leaves the van at the end of the fourth stage of the tour of Catalonia last week.

By Josep Lago, AFP/Getty Images

Alberto Contador of doping control leaves the van at the end of the fourth stage of the tour of Catalonia last week.

The Court of arbitration for sport said Wednesday it had registered the SAME challenge to the Spanish cycling Federation's decision to remove Contador, who tested positive for clenbuterol en route to winning his third Tour de France last year defense Contador. Spanish Federation accepted that he accidentally consumed the banned substance consumption contaminated beef. Appeal WADA filed late Tuesday after UCI decision last week to the CAS in Lausanne, Switzerland Court said in The statement that CAS rules means "unable to consolidate the two cases, if all parties agree."The parties will now have the opportunity to file written submissions as well as all the arguments and evidence, "said CAS, which has sent a copy of WADA appeal lawyers for Contador and the Spanish Agency. last year, WADA, UCI teamed up successfully on CAS to get another top Spanish rider, Alejandro Valverde, banned two years for doping, where national Federation refused to punish him.CAS already faces a tight schedule to hear the case, Contador and to reach a verdict before the start of navigation 2 July, the Court reiterated on Wednesday that it was "ready to establish a procedural calendar allowing for the settlement of the dispute before the end of June." in a typical procedure for CASthe appeal is heard by a panel of three lawyers. One is appointed by the Court and each side of the dispute may appoint one. If the Panel rejects appeals UCI and WADA, Contador and then could defend the title Bout. If found guilty of doping, Contador has a two-year ban and lost his Tour victory Contador., who has won two races in Spain this season, racing to keep up the decision issuing CAS. This was provisionally suspended by the UCI in August, then resumed his career Racing last month after the abolition of the Spanish cycling organization disciplinary Commission World Anti-Doping Agency code. for clenbuterol, a banned anabolic agent that burns fat and builds muscle, as zero tolerance drug. Athletes can evade the sanctions only if they prove to be "no fault or negligence".Valverde was banned throughout the world for two years after a CAS array and UCI WADA accepted arguments that doped with blood-boosting hormone EPO and was related to the operation Puerto investigation. Valverde led world cycling rankings when the suspension was confirmed in May of The CAS verdict ended the frustrating event for the UCI and WADA, who was unable to persuade Spanish cycling officials to investigate Valverde. The case hinged around whether they could use evidence seized in Madrid during the probe into Puerto Court.

AP: Lance Armstrong, prohibited a doctor held prior to the 2010 Tour

ROME (AP) — Lance Armstrong and banned an Italian physician in Europe have met repeatedly since severing official ties in 2004, including recently, last year before Armstrong in the final Tour de France, a high-ranking official of the Italian law enforcement said the Associated Press on Friday. By Alex Wong, Getty Images

Lance Armstrong and disgraced doctor Michele Ferrari cut occupational ties for 2004.

By Alex Wong, Getty Images

Lance Armstrong and disgraced doctor Michele Ferrari cut occupational ties for 2004.

Michele Ferrari was the 2006 criminal charges accusing him of distributing doping products for athletes, but this remains banned for life by the Italian cycling Federation. Italian authorities suspect Ferrari continue to work with 20 23–30 top level riders, despite ban, including Armstrong, and actively this line of research, said the official law enforcement. Padua Prosecutor Benedetto Roberti ordered raids Thursday across Italy leading cyclists are believed to have links with Ferrari. Italian riders who work with the risk doctor bans from three to six months the law enforcement officer ... who is not authorized to speak publicly, because the investigation is still underway, he said that Armstrong met Ferrari frequently during many yearsMoritz, Switzerland, usually in, or Monte Carlo, Monaco. Ferrari had worked with the seven-time tour winner for several years before the separation of their 2004. Achieved at home by the AP on Friday, was asked if he saw Ferrari last Armstrong. "I really do not know. When, last year? Look, right now I can't remember, "he said," but haven't had a business relationship with Mr. Armstrong for a long time ".Armstrong has always denied doping. He retired from cycling for the second time earlier this year. "Lance had a professional relationship with Dr. Ferrari since 2004, but remains friends with his family doctor and sees any time soon. Lance last saw Dr. Ferrari around a year ago, "lawyer mark Fabiani said Armstrong in an e-mail message. recent meetings between Armstrong and Ferrari could provide evidence for a United States federal probe on doping, cycling. Armstrong is by far the highest profile athlete under consideration in this case, that is before a jury in Los Angeles., Without identifying the source of sports illustrated said in January that when Italian authorities raided the home of teammate Armstrong Jaroslav Popovych last November in Italiabrikan texts and emails the link to the RadioShack team Ferrari as recently In November 2009., European and American players met at Interpol headquarters in Lyon, France, to share information about all investigations. "Government sources leaking inaccurate rumors to create the false impression that this expedition taxpayer-expensive fishing has a purpose," said Fabiani. cyclists raided Thursday in Sicily and Northern Italy include Michele Scarponi--a Title contender this year's Giro d'Italia--and partner Leonardo Bertagnolli Lampreand five current and former Russian team Katusha riders with no arrests were made. one of the Russians, Aleksander Kolobnev, won the bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, getting bumped from fourth after Italy's Davide Rebellin was stripped of silver and Katusha. Lampre teams confirmed that police inspected the bikers ' biological passports and confiscated anti-inflammatoriesmilk powder, and power lines.Ferrari refused to comment on the raids. "I have many things to say, but I will say at the moment is right," he said. "The moment I have nothing to say."More strikes are likely, the Italian law enforcement official said. "We have tried to do some links and saw that some of what we were looking for. But this is not yet complete, "said the official. "All is associated with (Ferrari)."

UCI call Spain acquittal of Alberto Contador of doping

Of GENEYIS (AP)-Alberto Contador of contaminated beef defense will be put to the test again after the International Cycling Union decided Thursday it would appeal the Tour de France champion of doping acquittal. By Josep Lago, AFP/Getty Images

Alberto Contador waves to fans after the fourth stage of the tour of Catalonia on Thursday. Contador leads the race.

By Josep Lago, AFP/Getty Images

Alberto Contador waves to fans after the fourth stage of the tour of Catalonia on Thursday. Contador leads the race.

The UCI said it will be the Court of arbitration for sport to challenge the Spanish cycling Federation's decision not to ban the 28-year-old tested positive for the Contador clenbuterol. "The International Cycling Union decided today — within the timeframe specified by regulations — to appeal to the Court of arbitration for sport in Lausanne during the Spanish cycling Federation statement in the case of Alberto Contador, "the UCI said in a statement on the closing date for appeal."The decision on the appeal comes after an in-depth study of the file received from the (Spanish League). "Contador was acquitted after testing positive for clenbuterol during a test in a competition on 21 July 2010, one day of rest during last year's Tour de France. He blamed the outcome on eating contaminated beef. "I wish the situation was completely different, but I hope my arguments and my lawyers, "said Contador after the maintenance lead in the weekly Volta of Catalunya on Thursday. "I learned to use when I got to the finish line. The race is like any other day. "I am a person who believes that things will happen because supposedly, and perhaps we should go the CAS so that my innocence may prove even more clearly, "he said. "(UCI) had time to see all the documentation has been submitted. I am sure that they have never, ever seen folder as we give. "The World Anti-Doping Agency has three more weeks to decide whether to cooperate with her appeal. UCI spokesman Enrico Carpani told the Associated Press that cycling officials had worked closely with WADA and "there is no reason to think they won't join us."WADA for clenbuterol, a banned anabolic agent that burns fat and builds muscle, as zero tolerance drug. However, the rules allow athletes to escape sanction if proven "no fault or negligence". If a CAS array finds guilty of doping, Contador faces a ban of two years and missed the victory Tour to continue racing Contador. until CAS gives a verdictand after the stage on Thursday said it still intends to start may 7, Giro d'Italia-29, which won the 2008. The Volta, Contador riding for the first time, finished Sunday in Barcelona. CAS Secretary General Matthieu Reeb said Thursday it would be difficult but not impossible "before the recitation of a tour of the year that begins on 2 July. Allowing Contador an opportunity to defend the title when disabled. "If all parties agree that an accelerated procedure, reasonably could be considered the CAS for a final decision at the end of June, "Reeb said in a statement to the AP, adding that the WADA in the case that could extend the schedule by choosing to pursue greater. name of the sport has been difficult for UCICarpani said Thursday, at the World Championships in the Netherlands. "Each case is painful for us ... because we would like to have a sport without doping cases "Carpani said, adding that the UCI would wanted to prove that it is able to get" better judgment "in the case. "We want for ourselves, for Contador, and for the whole sport of cycling."The UCI announced last September that Contador was suspended temporarily after traces of clenbuterol, and found the system requested by the Spanish Federation to investigate the Spanish organisation. Disciplinary Committee originally proposed a one-year ban for Contador in January. The legal team of Contador and then offered new evidence and he was cleared to race three weeks later "we are the judge now, not judges, together with Contador," the Spanish cycling Federation spokesman Luis Roman told the associated Press. In a later statementthe Federation said it will support a disciplinary panel's verdict, "taking any necessary action to preserve the innocence of the athlete."Days before the decision to clear the Contador, Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said "there is no legal reason to justify the imposition of sanctions Contador."Sports Minister Jaime Lissavetzky Spain said Thursday he hoped the Court on the basis of the Swiss acted quickly to "put an end to a situation that does not benefit anyone." "I have confidence in the independence of the CAS and that the resolutions will be taken as soon as possible," said Spanish media Lissavetzky.Contador continued his career with new team Saxo Bank-Sungard and since then has completed two games. He was fourth in the tour of the Algarve in Portugal and won the Vuelta Murcia owner Bjarne Riis Bahrain. Team called for a quick decision and said it stood by its Star Rider. "Alberto Contador was acquitted in the first place and thus is innocent of any deliberate wrongdoing by ruling says something else, "said Riis, the 1996 Tour winner who later admitted to doping during his career. "If this is a case of accidental intake of a prohibited substance, we will continue to support Alberto Contador. In our opinion, it would be wrong to do anything else. "Contador is a only five cyclists to win the three Grand Tours-the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia and Spanish Vuelta. He also won the tour in 2007 and 2009 and was the first defense of the title of 2008 because the team Astana was banned doping offenses in the race last year. only one cyclist has lost a headline tour anti-doping. Floyd Landis of the United States had been stripped of the victory of 2006 for testing positive for testosterone..

Gilbert WINS Amstel Gold Race Title again

VALKENBURG, Netherlands (AP) — Philippe Gilbert successfully defended the title Amstel Gold Race on Sunday, edging Joaquim Rodriguez and Simon Gerrans, Gilbert of Australia, who last week claimed the Fleche Brabanconne-race, led a group of 15 riders charged past Andy Schleck on the final climb before overtaking Rodriguez fierce pace of 500 meters (yards) to The end of the line. Belgian rider becomes only the second in the history of the struggle to win two straight titles. Dutchman Jan Raas won four times between 1977 and 1980. "The format was there, I knew the team was good and the plan was to start my exercise during the last three kilometers, "Gilbert said. "I was calm." Gilbert mounted the challenge for the Tour de France winner with 11 kilometers Schleck (7 miles) before calling in the past remains a noticeably surprised Rodriquez in a final stretch. 28-year old Belgian rider said the aim was to win, alsonext week Liège-Bastogne-Liège Race. "Have different tribes, "Gilbert said. "I think it is even harder, Liège.Rabobank rider Robert Gesink said he was disappointed to finish ninth after a dismal performance in last of the breed when there are 32 by Gilbert "the man to beat."

Cyclist banned for biological Passport violation

GENEVA — Slovenian rider Tadej Valjavec was given a two year ban for doping on Friday in another legal victory for cycling project biological passport. the Court of arbitration for sport upheld an appeal by the International Cycling Union, which wanted Valjavec penaltieseven if he never tested positive for a banned drug.CAS said the Panel found that Valjavec "doping tests conducted in April and August 2009 revealed irregularities in the context of the biological passport of the athlete to an extent which is fully consistent with blood manipulation."34-Year-old rider was suspended through Jan. 19, 2013, fined $ 76,000 and removed all the results and awards from 19 April-Sept 30, 2009, Auditors said a third straight was a victory for the UCI to the Supreme Court of the sport in cases involving the flagship programme for the fight against doping. "We are very happy because this verdict has been given support CAS again the credibility of the biological passport, "UCI spokesman Enrico Carpani told the Associated Press by telephone. "However, never satisfied with the doping case because it is always one too many."The governing body called the Slovenian cycling Federation decision last July to remove the Star Rider, placed 10th in the 2008 Tour de France was not allowed. Valjavec doping and accused an unspecified illness for irregularities in blood samples.CAS, "confirmed the reliability of the indirect detection method based on profiles of athletes ' blood and already established in previous CAS decisions relating to the Italian cyclists Pietro Caucchioli and Franco Pellizotti."Slovenian officials asked the UCI to explore Valjavec last may, days before the Giro d'Italia 2010 starts. Valjavec was pulled from the race and suspended by his team Ag2r-La Mondiale. He's raced this season has been for the Turkish team third tier Manisaspor and was scheduled to start the weeklong tour of Turkey on Sunday and The UCI World Doping Agency began the biological passport of 2008 in an effort to combat doping Around. 850 riders have their blood samples in the laboratory are monitored regularly to WADA in Lausanne. The program is designed to demonstrate the effects of doping and banned methods such as blood transfusions, rather than detecting and testing for banned substances. together with the name Pellizotti Valjavec to a second round of riders under suspicion by the UCI. a landmark CAS verdict last monthPellizotti, was banned for two years and have been stripped from the third-place finish in the 2009 Giro, and the King of the mountains title in the 2009 Tour. It was the first decision by a panel of three lawyers, CAS, which examined the scientific and legal validity of the biological passport after decision PellizottiWADA Director General, David Howman has described as an "important step" doping efforts.Pellizotti was cleared by an Italian Court that he had been advised to impose a ban of two years last October, prompting the UCI challenge.CAS also rejected his appeal against a two-year Caucchioli suspension imposed by the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) on the basis of irregular blood readings. the court prepares verdict in the fourth indent of biological passport after another Italian, Francesco De Bonis, called the two-year ban imposed by CONI last May.

Ventoso WINS stage 2 Castilla-Contador 14

SALAMANCA, Spain (AP) — Fran Spanish Ventoso won a second straight stage of the Vuelta de Castilla and Leon on Thursday and Alberto Contador placed 14th to move into ninth overall after two legs.Ventoso covered stands 132 miles in 5 hours, 6 minutes 23 seconds to edge Ribeiro of Portugal and Russell Downing of Britain in a sprint finish.Tour de France champion Contador finished in the same time to remain in contention for a fourth title in the race. Ventoso holds the overall lead in the five-stage race with a time of 9: 19: 20. Contador, defending champion, probably will initiate the manufacture mountain. the arbitral tribunal of sport is set to revise the Spanish cycling Federation decision to not punish Contador despite a failed doping test for Tour de France.

International Cycling Union wins large sentences Anti Doping

Of GENEYIS (AP) — Italian rider Franco Pellizotti was found guilty of doping and banned for two years Tuesday in a landmark victory for cycling blood profiling program. By Alessandro Trovati, AP

Italian Franco Pellizzotti finished third in the 2009 Giro d'Italia.

By Alessandro Trovati, AP

Italian Franco Pellizzotti finished third in the 2009 Giro d'Italia.

The Court of arbitration for sport ruled that evidence of blood doping was confirmed in the profile of Pellizotti biological passport. This was been stripped of all results of the race since May 2009. Pellizotti, whose ban runs through May 2, 2012, losing the third-place finish at the 2009 Giro d'Italia and the King of the mountains title in the 2009 Tour de France. He also must pay the International Cycling Union fines of $ 160,000, CAS said the governing body of Cycling. welcomed the Court's endorsement of the plan's flagship catching drug cheats. "We were always convinced about the quality of our programme of doping and the work of our people, "representative & UCI Enrico Carpani said in an interview with the buzz of the governing body of Cycling. appeal to CAS after an Italian court cleared of doping last October The UCI said Pietro Caucchioli CAS also rejected the appeal against his two-year suspension imposed by the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) on the basis of results of biological passport.Pellizotti and never tested positive for banned Caucchioli drugs, but showed jagged results on samples of blood taken for biological passport. our first verdicts are issued by CAS appeal panels that examined the scientific and legal validity of the biological passport. The program is designed so that scientists can prove evidence on the effect of doping rather than detecting and testing for banned substances in CAS Panel reviewed in detail the biological Passport program administered by the UCI and found that the strict implementation of this programme could be regarded as a reliable means of indirect methods of doping detection, "a statement said the project was started by. UCI and doping agency world in 2008."Two of these cases is important for cycling, for the biological passport and for sport, "said Carpani. "Thanks for the good cooperation of the AMA, we were sure we could go in front of CAS with a strong case."WADA Director General David Howman said the verdicts were an "important step" in efforts of doping. "Athlete biological Passport programme has shown that it can withstand legal and scientific challenges. Those decisions send a strong message to those athletes who take the risk of cheating that we will eventually catch them, "Howman said in a statement The case was heard Pellizotti. the Court is based in Lausanne last Wednesday as the fourth and highest profiletest of the biological passport. 33-Year-old rider was one of the Favorites for the 2010 Giro d'Italia. Days before the three-week race began in May last year, Pellizotti interrupted by his team Liquigas after UCI told blood profile results were suspicious case has been handled. by CONI, which recommended that the Court imposes a two-year doping ban. However, the Panel ruled last October that the evidence failed to prove the guilt of Pellizotti. Pellizotti, who has not raced each from CAS, also call for compensation for damage from the UCI.Caucchioli was the first group of five riders named in June 2009 for suspicious biological Passport violations. 35-Year-old rider, who won two stages in the Giro in 2001, was banned from CONI through June 2011. About 850 riders have their blood profile monitored by scientists at the laboratory in WADA annual cost $ 8.3 million of The UCI Lausanne. project financed partly by race organizers and groups. Riders also contribute a percentage of their prizes ... work UCI has been intended as a pilot that could be copied by other sports federations, including the International Association of athletics and football governing body FIFA.CAS is preparing two more sentences in cases of biological passport. UCI contested Slovenian officials refusing to suspend Tadej Valjavec during readings suspicious blood. Another Italian, Francesco De Bonis, appealed the ban to two years after CONI penalties using Passport last May.

Tonto WINS Vuelta de Castilla-León

MEDINA DEL CAMPO, Spain (AP) — Xavier Tondo of Spain won the Vuelta de Castilla and Leon on Sunday, protecting the lead overnight to finish nine seconds ahead of Bauke Mollema of Netherlands and 17 ahead of compatriot Igor Anton. "(I was) to enable us to overcome the ybwsi then come close so many times, ' said tonto. British rider Ben Swift edges on a packet of chasers to claim the 167.7-kilometer (104.2 mile) fifth stage from Madrigal de las Altas Torres Medina del Campo. Tour de France champion Alberto Contador finished 24th Overallalmost three minutes off the pace. "I had a good race but I was lucky with the tire punctures on mountain stage, "said Contador, who will Race the Valona Giro d'Italia Flecha before May.

Carson, Calif., to host 2012 Para-cycling worlds

CARSON, Calif. (AP) — The 2012 Para-Cycling World Championships will be held at the Home Depot Center velodrome on Feb 10-12. The events in suburban Los Angeles will be the final qualifying event for Us athletes should be defined in the Team USA will compete in the Paralympic Games in London. The competition will include 230 athletes from 30 countries for the first time since 1998, and the second ever meeting in the world of cycling will be held in the United States Para.

Giro winner Basso to the Head Tour de Romandie composition

Of GENEYIS (AP) — Tour de Romandie Giro d'Italia organizers say winner Ivan Basso will row for the race six days beginning the Swiss 26. April event finished on 1 may in Geneva, just six days before the three-week Giro 2011 in Turin. Basso is committed to defending Giro title, and instead could conserve energy for the Tour de Francein July The Romandie composition includes 2009 World Champion Cadel Evans and 2009 Giro winner Denis Menchov. Evans said Thursday he intends to return after missing the Romandie the upcoming one day classics Amstel Gold and Walloon arrow with a thigh injury. Simon Spilak Slovenian racer will defend the title when Spain Romandie took Alejandro Valverde was stripped of the victory of 2010 After doping ban.

AP: IOC doping official disputes contaminated food as defence

LONDON (AP) — the ILO's top doping official said he has seen no convincing evidence that athletes accidentally testing positive for clenbuterol or other prohibited drugs by eating infected meat. By Fabrice Coffrini, associated Press

Arne Ljungqvist invites claims tainted meat resulting in positive drug tests "old stories".

By Fabrice Coffrini, associated Press

Arne Ljungqvist invites claims tainted meat resulting in positive drug tests "old stories".

In an interview Friday with the Associated Press, Prof Arne Ljungqvist said claims. contamination of food in cases of doping are "old stories" going back 30 years and has never been accepted by an array of international sport.Ljungqvist, Chairman of the Medical Commission of the International Olympic Committee and Vice-president of the world Doping Agency, said he remains doubtful claims accidental doping — a defense that has been used by Tour de France champion Alberto Contador and others.Ljungqvist said the sporting world should continue to work on the principle of "strict liability", whereby athletes are responsible for what is on their system. "Of course, any trial or court hearing will excuse a person, if it could be 100%, has proved to be a random topic, that was completely beyond the possibilities to test (prohibited substances), "he said. "So far we have not had such a case."Ljungqvist said he could not comment specifically on Contador, cleared the Spanish cycling Federation this month after accusing positive test of clenbuterol during last year's tour for eating contaminated Spanish beef. the International Federation of cycling, UCI study the decision before deciding whether to Contador appeal. The World Anti-Doping Agency also appealed to the Court of arbitration for sport. "It is the first time that a National Federation world their own athlete, "Ljungqvist said in a telephone interview from Sweden. "For this reason we have this assurance of a system of appeal."You have had such cases even back in the 1980s, and until now there has been no hearing panel has accepted these arguments at the end, "he added. "We have ethnic groups have been sorry those athletes, but when he came to the final decision, have all been ruled guilty."In 2009, the CAS Panel rejected a Polish canoeist Adam Seroczynski's claims that the positive test for clenbuterol at the summer Olympics in Beijing was the result of "food tampering" by organizers fed the contaminated meat. ILO expert witness in the case rejected the likelihood of accidental contamination.Clenbuterol is WADA list of prohibited substances as an anabolic agent which causes muscle and fat burning. It is also used illegally by farmers to bulk up livestock.Ljungqvist served as Chairman of the IAAF Medical Committee from 1980-2004 and participated in many of the largest cases of doping "in athletics.This is so far from the old stories, "said the defence food contamination. "It is not simply clenbuterol. Declare that they have already mixed alkylnaphthalenes from what they had eaten. "Ljungqvist recalled listening in the early 1980s by a Norwegian shot putter who blamed the positive test, a case that led to the adoption of strict liability rule. "You have to make sure that you do not receive restricted substances in your body in every way, "he said.Ljungqvist has little particular to a recent study of clenbuterol contamination from the WADA-accredited laboratory in Cologne, Germany. The lab found that 22 of the 28 passengers returning to Germany from China tested positive for the low levels of clenbuterol, probably from contamination of food caused by misuse of the drug in cattle farming. the study was prompted by the case of the German table tennis player Dimitrij Ovtcharovwho accused of clenbuterol test on contaminated meat. The German Federation decided not to ban, and WADA chose not to Undo. "for me this does not seem to be a scientific study with double-checking and control hardware and everything," said Ljungqvist. "Haven't seen a properly designed scientific design to demonstrate this fact."Asked for evidence of clenbuterol contamination in China, he said, "I don't know. If it were so, I think we should have a number of cases. "WADA Director General David Howman said this week the Agency has asked China for information about using steroids to increase.Zhao Jian, Deputy Director of China's anti-doping agency, rejected the conclusions of the Cologne lab.Zhao called "problematic", the German laboratory warning about Chinese food questioned the science behind it and said it unfairly pointed out a finger at China. Zhao is noted that Germany had a recent dioxin-tainted food scandal which led to the closure of thousands of farms that sell eggs, poultry and pork. It also said there are dozens of reported cases of clenbuterol doping labs around the world each year, not only in China. "Not food safety is an issue for only one country or a region, "said Zhao. "It is a global problem".

Hole pucker deflates Contador's chances of Castile

LAGUNA DE PECES, Spain (AP)-Alberto Contador of contention in the Vuelta he de Castilla and Leon on Friday, who are victims of two apartments in mountainous stage Filippo Savini. won The Tour de France champion, who had to deal with a pair of partitions for the second time in three meresme the second hole from just two kilometers from the finish 98-mile stage. "I had some bad luck," said Contador, who was almost three minutes behind the Savini at 28th. "Let's see if I have better luck on trial (Saturday)."Savini earned the 3 hours, 58 minutes and 25 seconds to edge Bauke Mollema of Rabobank Colnago-CSF Inox and partner Domenico Pozzovivo 7 seconds.Contador, a three-time champion who wanted to defend the title, was 2: 50 behind and now trail 2: 43 behind Mollema, the new overall leader with a total time of 13: 17: 52. The Court of arbitration of sport is set to revise the Spanish cycling Federation decision to not punish Contador despite a failed doping test for Tour de France.

Italian cycling Federation calls for four-year bans

MILAN (AP) — the Italian cycling Federation calls for doping bans should be extended from two to four years and wants the team directors and other squad members for first offences prohibited indefinitely. the Federation also wants lifetime bans for second offences bikers. proposals were unveiled an emergency session Thursday. They may be adopted in the Council of the Federation's meeting may 4, three days before the start of the Giro d'Italia. announcements come two days after the Italian Olympic Committee President Giovanni Petrucci said doping has become so rampant that the Federation needed to say teams and riders "to stop because nobody believes you anymore.