Melissa "Missy" Giove, a pioneer in women's mountain biking, was fast and outspoken during her career. Now, she also may be on her way to prison.
Giove, 37, the 1994 downhill world titlist who also tallied 14 national titles and 11 world cup wins, has pleaded guilty to marijuana trafficking.
Giove, who declined an appeal, gave her guilty plea in response to one count of conspiracy to possessing drugs with the intent to distribute in the U.S. District Court in Albany, New York.
According to newspaper accounts, Giove admitted a role in the delivery of over 350 pounds of marijuana from California to the Albany area.
Giove remains free on bail. But she faces a sentence of five to 40 years in prison as much as $2 million in fines and a lifetime of post-release supervision. Giove's sentencing is scheduled March 25.
Giove once dominated her sport. She retired in 2003 after a career in which the cyclist built a persona that included unique hairstyles, equally unique clothes and a knack for expressing her opinions.
When not gaining global attention for her athletic abilities, Giove was often in the spotlight for other reasons. She often wore her dead piranha around her neck and she wasn't shy about discussing her lesbian lifestyle.
Tour de France Archive (1997-2009)
Tour de France Postcards (1997-2009)
Comments
Definitely not a good role model.
Obviously another victim of evil drug war mandarins, you can tell by the pictures that all the dope she had was "medical marijuana" and everyone knows no one murders innocent people over $1.4 million dollars worth of pot right? Good Riddance to the scumbags. Enjoy the rest of your natural life in jail.
No need to be so judgmental, friends....
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