It's like the Olympics - except steroids are allowed

The first Enhanced Games kicked off in Las Vegas, an event where athletes openly use performance-enhancing drugs like testosterone and human growth hormone—substances banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency but legally approved by the FDA. Founded by Aron D'Souza and Maximilian Martin in 2023, the competition attracted backing from investors like Peter Thiel and Donald Trump Jr., offering $25 million in prize money, including a $1 million bonus for world record breaks in swimming, track, and weightlifting. Athletes such as British swimmer Ben Proud and American sprinter Shania Collins are competing, with Proud aiming to break the 50m freestyle world record while using PEDs. Hafthor Bjornsson, known for his role in *Game of Thrones*, revealed he will attempt to surpass his own 510kg deadlift record, acknowledging his steroid use openly. Other competitors declined to disclose their drug regimens, though organizers claim the event’s transparency sets it apart from covert doping in traditional sports. Criticism has mounted from governing bodies like UK Athletics and UK Anti-Doping, which called the event a ‘reckless venture.’ UK Athletics CEO Jack Buckner condemned former GB sprinter Reece Prescod’s participation, while GB Aquatics warned Proud he risks exclusion from future Olympic teams if he competes. The US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) criticized the event, arguing that reform—not normalization of doping—should address cheating in sports. Health experts warn of severe risks, including strokes and cardiovascular damage, from anabolic steroids and growth hormones. Despite backlash, Enhanced Games organizers insist their approach exposes the hypocrisy of hidden doping in mainstream sports. The event’s inaugural weekend drew media attention, with athletes defending their participation as a bold step toward honesty in athletic performance.