Originally Posted by
acorn_user
You forget that Pantani is a hero in Italy still. The Carrera factory still displays his bike. Anyway, can't you see past the drugs to appreciate his style. It is the same for me with Vinokurov. I know he cheated now, but at least he rode with panache, unlike many.
Agreed, but it just sounds awkward to us non-Italians for someone to say, "I rode just like one of the biggest dopers in cycling today." There are no Irish swimmers that say before a race, I'm going to go at it just like
Michelle Smith today!