Am I the only one who remembers when the Olympics were still "Amateur sports"?
Nothing amateur about todays euipment!
Nothing amateur about the riders either, or at least the UK ones.
/Rose tinted specs =ON
"I remember when......" back in the late 60s I was racing and Beryl Burton was competing in UK time trials and internationally on the track. IIRC it was common knowledge that she worked full time on a farm picking rhubarb (?) of all things. They didn't have women's cycling in the Olympics back then but she regularly won internationals and I remember her beating the best man in one national time trial.
She was definitely an amateur and basically worked during the day then sorted out her own training regime. I wouldn't be surprised if the local bike shop gave her the odd frame & tyres but despite her talent she never really cashed in.
/Rose Tinted specs = OFF
These days the competition is so strong that Beryl's approach wouldn't come anywhere near. The UK track cyclists now have scientists looking at every aspect, very detailed diets/testing/training regimes and a heck of a lot of cash thrown at getting them onto that track. I'm proud of the UK track cyclists and happily cheer them on because no amount of cash will substitute for their dedication, but you've got to admit they have help well beyond the amateur cyclist of even only 25yrs ago.
I'm not sure they benefit financially themselves (unless they turn pro and go for the big Tour wins, Wiggins et al) although I'd expect them to make a comfortable living from a sport they love. And let's face it, no matter how good the bike you've still got to have the legs to turn the pedals faster than the opposition !
