Lance Armstrong, Chicago Marathon Troubles: Cyclist Barred From Running In 2012 Race

Armstrong Barred From Running In Chicago Marathon
Lance Armstrong speaks to delegates at the World Cancer Congress in Montreal Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Graham Hughes)
Lance Armstrong speaks to delegates at the World Cancer Congress in Montreal Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Graham Hughes)

Cyclist Lance Armstrong has reportedly been banned from running in next month's Chicago Marathon.

Runner's World reported Thursday that, owing to the U.S. Anti-Drug Agency's previous ruling that Armstrong used performance-enhancing drugs to win his seven Tour de France titles, Chicago Marathon organizers have chosen to honor the lifetime ban the USADA issued against him.

Chicago Marathon director Carey Pinkowski told the Chicago Tribune that, though Armstrong had not yet formally entered the race," they had some indication from his charity (Livestrong) that Lance might have been interested in running.”

However, despite that interest, the agency's ban applies to any and all sporting events whose organizers have signed on to the World Anti-Doping Code, according to the Tribune.

John Conley, whose company operates the Livestrong Austin Marathon and Half Marathon, told Runner's World that "it seems a little over the top to pursue him beyond the cycling arena to me."

The Chicago Marathon, which will be held Oct. 7, is one of five World Marathon Majors. Last year, 45,000 runners registered for the 26.2-mile race.

Meanwhile, the Associated Press reported Friday that Armstrong will be able to keep the bronze medal he won at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney -- at least for the time being. A final decision on whether the cyclist will be formally stripped of his Tour de France honors is forthcoming, pending a more detailed ruling from the USADA.

Attorneys representing Armstrong previously accused the USADA of engaging in a "vindictive pursuit" of the 40-year-old cyclist. Despite not challenging the agency's decision, Armstrong has stated that he always "played by the rules that were put in place … when I raced."

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Lance Armstrong, Floyd Landis

PHOTOS: Lance Armstrong

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