Polar Opposites: Bobridge on the Rise, Pfannberger On the Outs as Clean Riders are Rewarded While Dopers Continue to Get Caught

Jack Bobridge made headlines early on in the 2009 season as he rode a strong Tour Down Under, competing against the likes of Lance Armstrong, Stuey O'Grady and others in the week long season opening stage race. Several months later in Belgium and France, Katusha's Christian Pfannberger made similar headlines with strong performances in the hilly classics. He garnered top results and featured prominantly in the finales of each of the three hilly Wallonnian classics.

Today though, each rider seems headed in completely different directions. Bobridge, all of 19 years of age and with a limitless ceiling, is headed to his first Pro Tour contract with the Garmin-Slipstream outfit, while Pfannberger is poised to be banned from the sport for life after his second positive test for doping. Following in the footsteps of countryman Bernhard Kohl, Pfannberger drags the country of Austria through the mud once again. In fact, Austria is now looking like one of the most doping-dirty countries in the world as there have been multiple reports of doping within the country.

While yet another positive test for a highly successful pro is demoralizing for the cycling public, we need to take heart. Riders, regardless of their level of talent, are continuing to be caught cheating. With continued efforts, the noose is tightening by the day, and hopefully the peloton is beginning to finally realize that if they cheat, eventually they will be caught. While it is a shame that it takes as long as it does, nevertheless it is a good thing. Riders like Pfannberger have no place in professional cycling, and hopefully the Austrian will be blocked from ever coming back into the sport, even as a coach or advisor.

Bobridge meanwhile should be a reminder to all of us as to why we continue to fight doping and support the great sport of cycling. An immense talent already, it is scary to think how great a rider Bobridge will be in a few years time. Surrounded by solid mix of talent in Garmin-Slipstream, Bobridge should flourish over the coming years as he grows into a perennial contender.

How far Bobridge can go is anyone's guess. With dedication, attention to detail and a humble attitude he should be able to seriously contend in big time races within the next two years. For Pfannberger, the future is decidedly more bleak. Once a promising U-23 rider, national champion, and solid road pro, Pfannberger will fade into cycling obscurity, yet another footnote in the war against doping. Good riddance to bad seeds, and welcome Jack Bobridge to the big time. May you dominate for years to come!