Charity cycling tour to go ahead without banned Lance Armstrong

Disgraced American cyclist Lance Armstrong has been barred from taking part in a charity cycling event with ex-US Postal Service teammates as part of his lifetime ban for using performance-enhancing drugs. Armstong’s plan to ride this weekend was scuttled because the non-competitive event in South Carolina comes under the umbrella of Colorado Springs-based USA Cycling. The third annual Gran Fondo Hincapie – named after Armstrong’s former teammate George Hincapie – is a 128-kilometre touring trek set for Saturday around Greenville, South Carolina.

Our intent was never to cause a stir, but are disappointed to learn they’ve reversed course at the 11th hour. We will of course comply with the ruling.

George Hincapie

Armstrong has remained low-key since admitting to the doping in early 2013. His admission followed an extensive investigation conducted by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency that revealed the extent of Armstrong’s doping conspiracy. Armstrong had his seven Tour de France titles and other honors and awards stripped from him as a consequence of the investigation. The Gran Fondo Hincapie could have been an opportunity for reconciliation: several of the teammates present at the event testified against Armstrong.

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