THE 'ROID REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 20 (PT. 1)

by Gary Gaffney, MD, Steroid Nation

Over at Steroid Nation, last weekend became ridiculously overloaded, so we took a pass on The 'Roid Report for a couple days. We now bring you the make-up version with an added bonus feature later, although we haven't quite figured out what the bonus will be.

The Maurice Greene doping story continues on. Greene arguably the top American sprinter of the past 10-15 years became a target of steroid suspensions when a dope dealer allegedly named him as a buyer of juice. Greene denied the rumors, however Greene's ex-training partner Ato Bolden reportedly sent a scathing letter to Greene, and their coach, accusing them of a steroid cover-up. Initially supporting Greene, the IAAF decided to ask the sprinter for an explanation.

Greene's Olympic performances are considered legends. 'Legendary' does not come to mind thus far when describing the upcoming Beijing Olympics. Disturbing stories came from China concerning a sinister plot to discredit American athletics by planting steroids to disqulifying them. Conspiracy or not, the reports add to the controversies surrounding Beijing. And down in Australia authorities busted a former Olympic swimming medalist for selling steroids.

With all these controversies, perhaps we should all relax, take deep breaths, and try Miguel Tejada's HGH/steroid protocol to stay young. Seems the current Astro lied about his age, and his steroid use. Wonder if the Feds now consider him in the country under false pretenses? One more Tejada investigation.

At least the NFL is clean... oops. San Diego linebacker Stephen Cooper tested postive for a banned substance (ephedra) leading to a 4 game suspension. Cooper joins fellow chargers Shawne Merriman and Luis Castillo as juicers. Anyone want to party with these wild and juiced-up guys? (Merriman can be found judging Miss USA). No one seems to want to sign a petition for zero tolerance in baseball for steroids, so might all just party with the NFL juicers.

More later this weekend on steroid silliness.