By Beau Cline
As racers line up, they prepare to use their enhanced speed and strength to push the limits of human competition. This is the main goal of the Enhanced Games, a new track and field competition that allows the use of otherwise banned steroids. The idea behind the games is to allow athletes to safely use steroids without having to hide it, as 44% of athletes are already dosing without permission.
The idea of athletes using steroids seems like it would be unsafe as they are pushing their bodies past their limits; however the main reason for these competitions drug testing is to provide fairness for all athletes. These tests pay no mind to possible health concerns, or undiscovered health risks. This is where the safety of the enhanced games comes in. The games promise to conduct free medical screening prior to the event, which ensures they are healthy enough to compete. Some of these tests include echocardiogram, blood tests and genomic sequencing.
You might be concerned about the science behind enhancing these athletes, but they’ve got you covered here too. Throughout history great athletes have used performance enhancements to help them reach their full potential. Up until the last 50 years this has been a very popular method but with the rise in competitive sports we have suppressed the use of these enhancements.
Now we have to go over how they’ll gain participation and keep these athletes. Despite these athletes’ years of training and complete dedication to their sport, the majority of the athletes are living in poverty. Placing Gold at the Olympics pays out $37,000. Essentially, you have to be one of the best athletes in the world to be able to live comfortably. The enhanced games are going to change this; all athletes will be paid a base salary while being able to compete for winnings. With this you might be thinking you want to compete in the games. Well unless you’re a previous attending olympic athlete you’re out of luck for now, as they’re only choosing olympic athletes right now.
Another concern might be the influence these games will have on future athletes. With enhanced athletes being in the spotlight this might encourage underage kids to try and follow the steps of their favorite athlete. Only time will tell us how this plays out for our younger generations.
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