Is Proud the First Brit to Join the Enhanced Games?

Ben Proud, a decorated British swimmer, has made headlines by becoming the first athlete from the UK to join the Enhanced Games, a competition permitting the use of performance-enhancing drugs under medical supervision. Despite this controversial decision, Proud emphasises his commitment to clean sport and insists that the Enhanced Games offer him a fresh opportunity to excel.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ben Proud has won silver in the 50m freestyle at both the 2024 Olympics and the 2023 World Aquatics Championships.
• The Enhanced Games allow athletes to use certain performance-enhancing substances under strict medical supervision.
• Proud maintains that joining the Enhanced Games does not undermine clean sport.
• The inaugural Enhanced Games is set for May 2026 in Las Vegas.
• Critics warn that the Enhanced Games may endanger athletes' health and compromise fair play.

Who is Ben Proud?

Ben Proud, 30, is a prominent figure in competitive swimming, known for his speed and skill in the 50m freestyle. He has achieved significant accolades, including titles as world and European champion, and recently secured silver at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite his success, he has never clinched an Olympic gold or broken the longstanding world record in his event, which has stood since 2009.

What Are the Enhanced Games?

The Enhanced Games, proposed in 2023, represent a radical departure from traditional sporting norms. This event allows athletes to utilise banned substances, provided they are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and administered under medical supervision. This is a significant shift from the strict anti-doping policies enforced by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Controversies Surrounding the Enhanced Games

The Enhanced Games have drawn considerable scrutiny and criticism. WADA has labelled the initiative as "dangerous and irresponsible," while experts like Travis Tygart, CEO of the US Anti-Doping Agency, have derided it as a "clown show." Critics argue that allowing performance-enhancing drugs, even under medical guidelines, poses serious health risks and undermines the integrity of sport.

Proud's Perspective on Clean Sport

Despite the controversies, Proud has expressed a clear distinction between traditional sports and the Enhanced Games. He believes that the new format offers a unique avenue for athletes who have reached their limits under conventional rules. Proud stated, "I see traditional sport and the Enhanced Games as two very separate entities," reinforcing his belief that the Enhanced Games do not inherently diminish clean sport.

Performance-Enhancing Drugs and Their Impact

Proud has acknowledged that the use of performance-enhancing substances is a contentious issue within the athletic community. He emphasised that he respects the principles of clean sport and had previously supported initiatives like UK Anti-Doping's Clean Sport Week. Proud's journey into the Enhanced Games is driven by a desire to explore new possibilities in his athletic career, rather than a disregard for the rules that govern traditional sports.

The Science Behind Performance Enhancement

Performance-enhancing drugs can take various forms, including anabolic steroids, stimulants, and hormone boosters. These substances are intended to improve physical performance, endurance, and recovery. However, they also carry potential side effects, ranging from hormonal imbalances to cardiovascular issues. The Enhanced Games aim to manage these risks through medical oversight, although the concerns surrounding athlete health remain significant.

The Financial Incentives

One of the appealing aspects of the Enhanced Games for athletes is the financial reward structure. Participants can earn appearance fees and bonuses, which can amount to substantial sums, as demonstrated by Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev receiving $1 million (£739,000) for breaking a world record in a recent event. This financial incentive is likely to attract more athletes to the competition, heightening its profile and controversy.

Future of the Enhanced Games

The inaugural Enhanced Games are scheduled to take place in Las Vegas from 21-24 May 2026, featuring events in short-distance swimming, sprinting, and weightlifting. As the date approaches, it remains to be seen how this new format will evolve and how athletes like Proud will navigate the complexities of performance enhancement.

Proud's Reflections on His Career

After achieving significant milestones in his career, including a silver medal at the World Aquatics Championships, Proud feels a sense of contentment and readiness for this new chapter. He has discussed his decision with a few former teammates, receiving positive feedback despite the mixed reactions from the wider swimming community. Proud stated, "I think I can excel at [the Enhanced Games], and it's coming at a time in my career where I'm satisfied, I'm happy."

What Happens Next?

The Enhanced Games present a new paradigm in competitive athletics, blending traditional sports with a controversial approach to performance enhancement. As athletes like Ben Proud explore these uncharted waters, the implications for the future of sports and the ongoing battle against doping will be significant. The coming years will reveal whether this bold experiment will gain traction or face backlash from traditionalists and health advocates alike.

FAQs

What are the Enhanced Games?

The Enhanced Games are a new sporting event that allows athletes to use performance-enhancing drugs under medical supervision, differing significantly from traditional anti-doping regulations.

Why is Ben Proud participating in the Enhanced Games?

Ben Proud sees the Enhanced Games as an opportunity to explore new avenues in his athletic career and believes it offers him a chance to excel beyond the limits of traditional sport.

What substances are allowed in the Enhanced Games?

Only substances approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can be used in the Enhanced Games, with strict medical supervision in place to manage athlete health.

What are the criticisms of the Enhanced Games?

Critics argue that the Enhanced Games jeopardise athletes' health and undermine the integrity of sports, with concerns raised by organisations like WADA and the US Anti-Doping Agency.

When will the first Enhanced Games take place?

The inaugural Enhanced Games are scheduled for May 2026 in Las Vegas, featuring competitions in short-distance swimming, sprinting, and weightlifting.