Australian Sports Commission chief Kieren Perkins has expressed grave concerns about a proposed multi-sport event known as the Enhanced Games. He believes that allowing athletes to use banned performance-enhancing substances at this event is dangerous and could result in fatal consequences. Perkins described the concept as “borderline criminal” and warned that if this type of environment is permitted to continue, someone could die.
The Enhanced Games were put forward by Australian entrepreneur Aron D’Souza, and have attracted attention from athletes like James Magnussen, a world champion swimmer and Olympic medalist. D’Souza has offered Magnussen $1 million to break the world record for the 50-meter freestyle after using performance-enhancing substances. However, Perkins did not specifically address Magnussen but emphasized that athletes should be protected from making poor choices and not encouraged to participate in events with these risks.
Perkins raised concerns about the commercial objectives of the Enhanced Games organizers and the involvement of pharmaceutical companies. He questioned the motivations behind the event and speculated that the ultimate goal may not benefit individual athletes or society as a whole. The proposed schedule for the Enhanced Games includes swimming, diving, track and field, weightlifting, gymnastics, and combat sports.
Reports have indicated that negotiations are underway with global television networks and streaming platforms, and potential host venues around the world are vying to hold the Games. Organizers are planning up to seven qualifying events in December, with the inaugural Enhanced Games scheduled for the following year. Perkins’ strong stance against the event reflects his ethical concerns surrounding performance-enhancing substances in sports.
In conclusion, Kieren Perkins expressed grave concerns about a proposed multi-sport event known as Enhanced Games due to its potential danger to athletes’ health and its questionable motivations behind it. Despite attempts from organizers to attract attention through offering money incentives to participants who use performance-enhancing substances, Perkins believes that such an environment is borderline criminal which could lead someone to death if allowed to continue unchecked
