13-08-2024 07:36:44 - Updated: 13 August, 2024
Sha’Carri Richardson, one of the most promising sprinters in the United States, found herself at the center of a media storm before the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. At just 21 years old, Richardson stood out by winning the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic trials, qualifying as one of the favorites for the gold medal in Tokyo. However, her Olympic dream crumbled when she tested positive for THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, resulting in a 30-day suspension and her disqualification from the competition.
Richardson consumed cannabis in Oregon, where it is legal, as a way to cope with the emotional pain following the death of her biological mother. Although her use was not intended to enhance her performance, strict anti-doping rules kept her out of the Olympic Games, and she missed an opportunity to compete at her peak.
Fast forward to the Paris Olympic Games, where Sha’Carri Richardson returned to the track with strength and determination, winning the silver medal. While this achievement is impressive, many wonder what might have happened if she had competed in Tokyo, which was possibly the peak of her performance. The controversy surrounding her suspension highlights a broader debate about the use of cannabis among elite athletes.
⛳ Cannabis and Elite Athletes
Richardson’s case is not isolated. Legendary athletes like Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world, and Michael Phelps, the most decorated swimmer in Olympic history, have also admitted to using cannabis. Despite this, both reached the peak of their careers, dominating their respective sports and setting world records. This suggests that cannabis use does not necessarily benefit athletic performance, and certainly did not prevent these athletes from achieving greatness.
Gervasio Deferr, the Spanish gymnast who won multiple Olympic medals, also faced controversy for cannabis use. Nevertheless, his talent and dedication led him to the top of his discipline, once again demonstrating that cannabis is not a determining factor in athletic success.
⭐ Should Cannabis Be Considered Doping?
These cases raise a crucial question: should cannabis be considered a doping substance? The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits cannabis due to concerns about safety and sportsmanship. However, as we have seen with Richardson, Bolt, Phelps, and Deferr, cannabis use does not seem to provide a significant competitive advantage. Rather, its use has been associated with relaxation and stress relief, important aspects for the mental health and overall well-being of athletes.
✨ Conclusions and Pevgrow’s Opinion
In a world where the legalization of cannabis is on the rise and public perception is changing, it is vital to reconsider doping policies to reflect a more nuanced understanding of substances and their impact on athletic performance. The story of Sha’Carri Richardson, along with the examples of other iconic athletes, underscores the need for a more balanced and fair approach.
At Pevgrow, we support an informed and compassionate approach to cannabis, both for athletes and consumers in general. Why is coffee consumption allowed but not marijuana? With coffee being a stimulant that can help enhance physical performance and cannabis being a relaxant that can, in any case, harm more than help… We believe in the importance of educating and eliminating the stigma associated with cannabis use, especially when used responsibly and consciously. What do you think about the inclusion of cannabis on the list of prohibited substances? Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us.
I believe that cannabis should not be considered doping, as it does not enhance physical performance and its use is more about relaxation than competitive advantage.