Roberto Gaggioli was suspended by USA Cycling today for the remainder of the year, for assaulting Jittery Joe’s rider Johnny Sundt with a 2x4 after several in-race altercations between the two. USA Cycling has finally wielded it’s big stick in an attempt to curb the recent outbreak of fisticuffery that has been taking place at races in the States. From CyclingNews.com:
"Unfortunately, there have been other incidents where riders have fought at a cycling event," said USA Cycling's CEO Sean Petty to CyclingNews. "It's a disturbing trend this year where we have seen several fights recently. There is no place for this type of behavior in cycling or any other sport. "We hope that suspending Mr. Gaggioli and any others involved in instigating fights at USA Cycling events will send a message that we take these matters seriously and will take action no matter who the rider is. "Mr. Gaggioli had his appeal and the decision is final. He is suspended from all USA Cycling events until the end of 2004. Mr, Gaggioli has raced in the United States for almost 20 years as a professional and he should know that this type of behavior is unacceptable."
This brings to an end the speculation over exactly what happened between the two following the "Cheaha Challenge" criterium on May 1st in Anniston, Alabama. In this VeloNews article, Neal Rogers covered some of the circumstances around the Sundt/Gaggioli feud. The question on everyone’s mind was just how far events really went. Apparently USA Cycling agreed with Sundt’s account of the encounter, and having several witnesses probably didn’t hurt. Here’s hoping that this action by USA Cycling puts the kibosh on any more acts of violence taking place at what is, for most of the domestic peloton, a recreational activity.
Comments