ISSUE 8 February 1, 2013
What Tribe Are You?
Funeral for a Friend Interview Doping and Cycling Pulling Pants
to book a viewing visit www.donkeydigs.com today
Contents
6 12
Natasha Cox Editor in Chief Grace Meritt Editor Ana Curbelo Art Director George Mostyn Online Content Editor Broderick Suthlerland Deputy Editor Greg Carter Head of Illustration
18 22
NEWS Exec Build Up Binge drinking What Tribe Are You? Tough Guy
FEATURES Studying Abroad Is Revenge sweet? Lufbra Overheard
TOTTY SPOTTER
STYLE
Pulling Pants Men’s Fashion Week
Carolyn Brown Head of Photography Jan Baykara Design Assistant Meghan McCabe Kiera Sweeney News Editors Cathryn Antoniadis Laura Smith Features Editors Dan Nicholson Ella Stanbrook Music Editors Beth Baker-Wyse Joanna Donnelly Culture Editors Anna Birtwistle Chloé Fallon Style Editors Chloe Hemmings Rebecca Oldham Sport Editors Peter Woolley Webmaster Maxine Cheyney Head of Events and Marketing
26 32 36
CULTURE Computer Culture Kiva Sci-Fi
MUSIC
Friend of a Friend Interview The Slow Show Aerosmith Review
SPORT
The Cost of Fitness Lightning Preview Olympic Youth Festival Doping and Cycling
Cover illustration by Greg Carter
Disclaimer: Label is the publication of Loughborough Students’ Union. The opinions contained are those of individual contributors, not of Loughborough Students’ Union, the editorial team, or any other officer of the union unless otherwise stated.
From the Editor A controversial topic has hit campus and Label over the past month, which deals with the Spotted: Loughborough pages and how far the comments on there should be taken. Some have seen them as merely a great break from revision and a bit of harmless fun, pointing out the annoying or odd things about people they’ve seen in places such as the library. Others have seen a more sinister side to the pages, as many make remarks which include race, body type or comments with sexist undertones.
Label Magazine, your fortnightly fix of all things Loughborough.
An article featured on Label online last week, looked at the negatives of these pages and the response it got back was varied, with one student commenting that if the pages offended someone that much ‘why didn’t they just avoid them?’ This is one idea perhaps, but can you ever completely ignore something so directly linked to your student culture and is that really the best solution? This issue, label culture have featured a debate on whether anonymity makes people more aggressive. It’s an interesting topic to consider, especially as the Executive Elections begin on campus soon. What Label writes is made to be impartial on all candidates, but what others can comment with anonymity guaranteed could be very far from it. Until next time, Grace Meritt
Like our Facebook Page Label Online For all the latest stories, visit www.lufbra.net/label
CONT ACT U
S!
Is th e we s re a sto houl r d kn y you th Conta ow abou ink t? ct us labe a With a leditor@lu t fbra.n ny info et rmat querieion, letters and s
Hello all! I’m Billy Marsh your Action Chair and I’d like to take a little bit of your time to talk about ‘VOLUNTEER WEEK!’ Volunteer Week (February 11-16) is your chance to fall back in love with the wonderful world of Action. Throughout the week, we will be hosting roadshows in James France and EHB, taking our wonderful projects to you for the first time, as well as giving you the chance to get involved and make a real difference to the local community! The return of Disability Awareness Day will showcase the amazing work that our Equality section carry out year on year and give you the chance to try and see what life can be like for those living with physical/mental impairments. And who could forget the international spin on our well known Kids Days; giving students of all backgrounds the chance to educate local youngsters on their cultures and traditions. With a number of one-off projects currently in the pipeline, there will be plenty of chances to do your bit! Action is an amazing way to meet new people, learn new skills and make a real difference in the local community and we most certainly have something for everyone! For more info please just get in touch... Can’t wait to see you all! Twitter: @LufbraAction Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ActionChair Email: Action@Lufbra.net Billy Marsh Action Chair
In response to Label Online’s ‘LEARN Site Down’ It did ! I’ve got an exam tomorrow. IT services are completely useless in this university. I’m a finalist and they are playing with my life. Nury I too have an exam tomorrow. If I had known the site was going to be down I would have downloaded all of the material already, however as it has been advertised that maintenance was scheduled for Friday I didn’t think there would be an issue. Possible naivety on my part but there should be a back up plan in place, especially during exam times when so many students rely on accessing the site. Dani Lets remember this is Emergency Maintenance, if they could have done it at any other time I suspect they would have. Lets not forget the hard working IT Services guys, who should be home right now but are working tirelessly to fix it as soon as they can. Yes the timing is inconvenient, but if you have an exam tomorrow, if you look inside and dig deep, you know you should be better prepared before now don’t you? Ian
Tweets @LabelOnline Miranda Kusi @Miranda2x0x @labelonline ‘Aid your grade’ was a n interesting article. Too bad there wasn’t a book for the social sciences! Sophie-Louise Hyde @Sophie_L_Hyde @labelonline Just wanted to say well done to all involved in the Matt Pinnock Tribute featured... you didn’t need to have known the guy to be so moved by the kind words friends said about him. It was a beautiful read. Emily Dunne @emily_18 “@kjl_cats: “@labelonline: Has Loughborough library gossip girl gone too far? Everyone read this! Broderick Sutherland @BrodSutherland Now you can like the facebook page of @labelonline #tisverygood
04 - 05
EDITORIAL
ugh Loughboro ief News in Br Deal means 50 jobs a year for Loughborough students Loughborough University have signed a unique deal with leading French sports company, Oxylane (Decathlon), which is expected to lead to 50 jobs a year for international students. 15m project to pedestrianise Loughborough town centre Demolition of some buildings is due to be undertaken in spring and the Inner Relief Road and its new junctions will be built throughout the rest of the year. The town centre improvements are expected to be finished by spring 2015. Loughborough students win international competition by Philips The ‘Innovation Open’ competition invited inventors from across the world to put forward their ideas for new products. A team of Loughborough industrial design students won with a fresh approach to oral healthcare that uses ultrasonic technology and a modern design.
n and rmatio lf or o f in ore rse For m inate you Exec, n m o io n n U to eor one f et/ex some w.lufbra.n w . visit w elections c
Time running out to
nominate for the ‘Ultimate Grad Job’ Nominations for this year’s Loughborough Students Union Executive Elections close on Friday February 8. The Exec buzz has already started on campus but what does the job of a sabbatical officer involve?
cap of £100 has been introduced and must be strictly adhered to. Additional rules include arranging discounted entry to nights being strictly forbidden and any socials arranged having no direct link to the campaign.
Loughborough Students Union is run by students for students and the entire Executive team are all current, or ex-Loughborough students. Joining the Exec team means a year working alongside the university to create the ultimate student experience.
VP: Democracy and Communications Ali Cole told Label “It’s been a great start to the elections this year! Exciting to see and speak to a lot of potential candidates. But there is still plenty of time for students to get involved, or they can recommend a friend who they think would be great. I can’t wait to see who takes the leap and decides to run! Anyone interested can email me at vpdemocracy@lufbra. net.”
The application process includes submitting a 250 word manifesto and any proposed artwork for posters. This artwork will be printed by the union to kick-start the campaigns. Immediately after the first candidates meeting, Sunday February 17, ten days of campaigning will begin. On the first Tuesday and Wednesday of campaigning, the Union will host Hustings, streamed live on LSUTV. Voting opens at 07:00, Monday February 25 and closes at 18:00, Wednesday February 27. Results will be announced at Hey Ewe that evening. Rules for running candidates are extremely strict this year. A budget
The 10 roles students can run for are: President, Vice President: Democracy and Communications, Vice President: Finance and Commercial Services, Vice President: Welfare and Diversity, Vice President: Education, Societies Federation President, Athletics Union President, Rag Chair, Action Chair, and Head of Media. Kiera Sweeney News Editor
Therapy Help
for Young Drinkers A study carried out over two years in 21 London schools has found that young people who are at risk from becoming binge drinkers can be helped by mental health therapy. The students who took part in the study were classified into two groups: those at high-risk, and those at low-risk of becoming dependent on alcohol in the foreseeable future. With Health and Wellbeing Week well under way in Loughborough, it may be the time to think about what kind of drinker you are. Those classed as high-risk were said to have certain personality traits such as anxiety problems or ‘low’ moods as well as some being thought to be impulsive or thrill seekers. In the 21 schools studied, around 700 students were thought to be high-risk and preceeded to take part in workshops designed to help them, with some being given training in psychological strategies to help them cope with their feelings. After two years, the study found that those at high-risk were 29% less likely to drink compared to other
high-risk students who had not been given therapy, and 43% were less likely to binge drink. The study was lead by Patricia Conrad of King’s College London’s Institute of Psychiatry. Dr Conrad stated that “not only does the intervention have a significant effect on the teenagers most at risk of developing problematic drinking behaviour, there was also a significant effect on those who did not receive the intervention, but who attended schools where interventions were delivered to highrisk students, this is very important as it suggests that the benefits of mental health interventions on drinking behaviour also extend to the general population.” According to the charity Action on Addiction, around 5000 young people are taken to hospital yearly for alcohol related reasons. Meghan McCabe News Editor
Outside rough Loughbo ief News in Br Female Smoking Risk Has Dramatically Increased Recent studies have found that women smoking nowadays are far more likely to die as a result of their habit than they were in the 1960s. This has been blamed on changing habits such as starting smoking earlier and smoking more cigarettes. Nightclub Tragedy At least 233 people have died in a fire that swept through a night club in southern Brazil after a musician reportedly let off fireworks on stage. Apple Loses Top Position Another fall in Apple’s shares means the company have lost the title as the world’s most valuable publicly traded company. Oil company Exxon Mobil has regained the top slot. University Applications On The Rise It has been reported that university applications are running at a higher level than last year, with a 2.8% increase for undergraduate courses.
06 - 07 NEWS
Which
Tribe Are You?
This year, Loughborough Student’s Union has taken part in a research project, aimed to inform the Union brand development and engage with more students. Five different types of student have been discovered, each belonging to a different tribe, which can be identified through five ‘golden questions’, sent out to all students earlier this year. The tribes were developed by looking at a combination of many factors from the questionnaire, along with behaviour patterns like Club membership and ents attendance, based on the Union computer system. This was followed up by a set of focus groups, to start to understand some of the shared characteristics of people within the tribes. The research also looked generally at what students wanted to see from the SU in the future. One of the questions posed to participants was what values they thought Loughborough SU should posses going forward, the top five being fun, friendly, getting involved, value for money and supportive. The research also found that 50% of students disliked the abbreviation 'lufbra' and felt that all communication channels should use the full name, Loughborough. Many students wanted to hear more communication from induction talks on campus and the Students Union website, and less from personal email addresses
and pre-lecture talks, although preferred methods of communication differed between the various tribe groups. VP: Democracy Ali Cole told Label, “of course we understand that all students are individuals and some people don't comfortably fit in to any group, but the tribe concept helps us focus our communication and make sure that we don't just try to serve one 'average student' or assume all international students are the same. This is all cutting edge and experimental but its an effort to make the Union serve the whole range of our members better.” The five 'golden questions' should not be taken as an indepth personality test, but are a way of sorting students into groups quickly, and judging the validity of the tribes concept. If you would like to know more about this work, go to www.lufbra.net/surveys/32. Below are the five tribe types given to students at Loughborough and a brief synopsis of each tribe's identity. Grace Meritt Editor
leading lights
(22% of Loughborough Students)*
‘Independent, self-aware, driven, focussed, outgoing, strong opinions’ Leading lights feel very much a part of the ‘Loughborough Experience’ as they get involved with the things they are passionate about. They are the least likely tribe to be ‘neutral’ about the SU and the most aware of things such as Student Voice, Union Council, and Media. The SU can fuel this tribe in future by helping them achieve things and improve as people, and by promoting equality for all.
Academic individualists
(21% of Loughborough Students)
‘Focused on learning and academics, not really into sport, anti-elitist’
Illustration by Greg Carter Design by Sally Wood
Academic individualists are moderate drinkers, enjoy a varied and cultured social calendar and are the least likely tribe to wear STASH. They are
the most likely to be dissatisfied by the SU but get involved in more alternative societies and competitive opportunities off campus. The SU hopes to shift their representation to be more positive to this group, and will not try and communicate with them on Facebook, instead having more presentations and talks on campus.
Party People
(21% of Loughborough Students)
‘Drinkers, socialisers, engagers, gregarious, fun, outgoing’ Party people are said to love hosting pre-drinks, can be vulnerable to peer pressure and spend a lot of time surfing the
Conscientious Carers
(20% of Loughborough Students)
‘Seek respect of others, need to be liked, look after the feelings of others, follow rules’ Conscientious carers love volunteering, taking care of their personal appearance and health, and
internet. This tribe is the most likely to know they are members of the SU and be involved in things such as Rag, Action and hall committees. The SU plans to help this tribe in future by providing good value for drink and food and connect with them more through things such as Facebook and YouTube.
see representation as key. The SU is less important to this tribe than some others and they are less likely to be aware of opportunities for involvement, preferring things such as SDC volunteering and taster sessions. The SU would be better for this tribe in future, if the website was re-designed, and there was more transparency when it comes to finances.
Flow Goers
(16% of Loughborough Students)
‘Neutral, average involvement, avoid responsibility and try and make life as easy as possible’ Flow Goers are more likely to sit on the fence when it comes to attitudes and opinions and get involved with ‘stuff’ but are not committed to anything in particular. They are the least likely tribe to enjoy positions
of responsibility or be aware of different societies. The SU can help this tribe by having more non-alcoholic events in the union, telling them more about discounts, offers and competitions and to have more events during exam period when they are bored. *percentages based on research on 1337 participants and rounded to the nearest whole number
08 - 09 NEWS
Loughborough Students once again
take on Tough Guy
The annual event of Tough Guy took place on January 27. With 52 students taking part, 23 student support crew volunteers and an estimated total of £16,500 raised for the charities Help for Heroes and The Donkey Sanctuary, the event was once again a huge success. Label spoke to Rag Chair Max Turner who was very pleased with this year’s turnout saying it was more than last year’s. He described the event as being ‘incredible’ and continued to say that the ‘support crew were superb in making sure everyone was well looked after.’
Piers Harrison, a Loughborough competitor that finished in a time of 1:37:08, described Tough Guy as being ‘both physically and mentally demanding.’
‘I feel like they’ve stepped it up this year, there were so many more water based obstacles.’ Despite the cold and the quite obvious danger that the course possesses no one was seriously injured and Rag Chair Max Turner stated that ‘no one died, which is a massive positive for me.’ Vignette O’Bryan
bel full La e the ry go To se galle photo hborough g n u o to L edia o nts’ M k e d u t S oo Faceb
Photography by Carolyn Brown
For Dominic Bosher, the first Loughborough student to cross the finish line in a time of 1:36:13, the event proved challenging having lost both shoes. However, he wasn’t the only Loughborough student to do so well, with 8 other Loughborough participants finishing in the top 100.
Taking part in the event for three consecutive years, Harrison stated that ‘Tough Guy stands out as an incredible way to raise money for charity as it requires you to be very committed and dedicated prior to the event as well as during the event itself.’ Label also spoke to student Sam Bennett. Having took part in 2012 as well as this year’s, Label asked him to describe the main differences between the two years, in response he said:
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response time. Applications are open now for first & final year students (and those in the second year of a four-year course) and close on 22nd February. However places are filled on a first-come, first-served basis so apply early to avoid disappointment. All will be revealed by visiting our graduate website. accenture.com/bootcamp Be the first to know the latest news: ‘Like’ Accenture Careers UK Follow accentureukjobs on Twitter Watch us on YouTube AccentureUKcareers
Studying Abroad: Should it be Stopped?
When in a classroom surrounded by a variety of ‘Spanglish*’, you cannot help but question whether the cancellation of the Erasmus programme will come at a cost for younger generations. Since 1987, the EU’s EuRopean Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students (Erasmus) has provided students with the opportunity to study in a foreign country for a semester or a full academic year. On average, 150,000 students take part on the exchange every year, and receive a grant to support their studies. From 2007-2013, the EU’s Learning Programme spent €2.788 billion on the Erasmus programme alone. Loan and tuition payments continue as normal. This seems like a lot of money to spend on students who are stereotyped for missing classes because they occupy their time abroad with late night fiestas. But this is the view of students in general. Whilst I have found this to be true in some cases, it remains an over generalisation. Experience is what you make it. Betul, a Turkish student at Cadiz University told Label: “I didn’t want to go on Erasmus to party. I wanted to see a different country, people and different teaching styles of lectures”. For me, the classes are tedious, and the classrooms are an awful reminiscence of those in my childhood. But it is
important to remain open-minded when studying English in a foreign speaking country, the classes being conducted in English are remarkable. You dedicate your free time to the reasons behind your Erasmus choice. Thus for some, the experience is beneficial, for example discovering cultural differences in teaching methods is otherwise unavailable. It develops a network of communications between institutions, improving education and teacher training. Betul continued to say that “it is really difficult to adapt myself to classes, but I know that I am learning something different and these will be in my pocket in the future”. The teachers, like marmite, either love or hate the Erasmus students; they appreciate the different cultural characteristics you bring, or judge you based on the Erasmus stigma. Attending classes and learning the language help better their opinion of you. Depending on your courses, the classes may be taught in the native language. Though this is an initial obstacle, it is the best step towards fluency. Giada, an Italian student taught in Spanish and English, said, “My Erasmus in Spain has allowed me to learn the language, which I like. Studying in a new country is difficult, but it is an opportunity to become an adult”. The programme provides a life lesson unavailable in general studies. Living independently in a foreign country, developing responsibility, cultural open-mindedness and the willingness to be productive, are factors employees look for. Santi, a Spanish student who studied at Loughborough University last year commented that “living abroad gave me the opportunity to learn many things, for example taking care of myself”. I met my current flatmate last year in Loughborough. Rosario valued her experience so much that she wishes to study a Masters course here as well. Whilst Rosario found her application process simple and her coordinator helpful, I felt the opposite: I was hassling the coordina-
tors in both institutions in order to complete what should have been a short application process. I had to seek the information myself and there were problems. I was lucky with my accommodation however because most are left to search alone. I had a native friend to help. In Loughborough we have halls, other countries use Facebook with the chance to advertise and meet other students. It is important to weave in and out of the Erasmus circle and appreciate cultural differences. Many organizations aim to enrich your experience by conducting cheap trips around your visiting country, but they are poorly organized. The social nights are a stream of monotonous parties in an English-speaking atmosphere. Initially you feel like a fool interacting with the native speakers due to their extensive use of colloquialisms, their strange customs, and their questionable food. But you adapt and relish: you cannot learn this in a classroom. I was shocked to discover that not many people knew about the exchange opportunities available to them in Loughborough, despite the university admitting up to 2,500 international students. Many students are not offered the exchange on their course or can only do so on their placement year out.
Photography by Carolyn Brown
The programme helps dissolve cultural ignorance, and provides students with an experience valuable to future employers. The Erasmus programme was costly, but rather than cancelling it, it should be transformed into a more selective programme available to those that would really benefit. “Every student should have the same chance that I had. Loughborough University gave me the best experience of my life and I will never forget it.” Santi. *Spanglish: Spanish that contains many English words and phrases. Emma—first from the left,, bottom row—on her Erasmus
Emma Spencer
12 - 13 FEATURES
In today’s world, it doesn’t shock us to pick up one of our favourite magazines and read yet another story of a celebrity that has been cheated on. Recent scandals include Kristen Stewart cheating on Robert Pattinson, and of course, Ashley on Cheryl. But what do you do if it’s closer to home, what if it’s you that’s being cheated on? Below are the top signs experts say you should look out for in men and women: Are they picking fights more often than usual, criticising you or generally just being uncharacteristically rude? It could be due to feelings of unhappiness and guilt. If they spend more time away from you, their friends, and regularly avoid group social events, but don’t seem to have a valid explanation as to why.
Are their friends acting strange around you? This could be a sign that they know something but don’t want to dish the dirt on their friend. Are they being overly defensive and secretive? Do they say things that don’t add up? Are they paying more attention to their appearance than usual?
Do they call you ‘crazy’ when you confront them, or accuse you of cheating instead? This is a highly common way for a cheater to try and make you doubt yourself instead of them. Any signs that he or she is becoming very protective of their gadgets. Do they take their calls in other rooms or appear to get nervous when being called or text. Are they deleting their call and text history?
But now comes the tough bit, if you have been cheated on, what should you do about it? What if you can’t forgive and forget, instead coming to a tearful and angry acceptance that you can no longer trust them and your relationship needs to come to an end. Do you then just let them get away with it and try and get on with life again, or do you exact your revenge?
Section Design by Lewis Allum, Jan Baykara
Photography by Iona Taberham
The idea of revenge does sound like fun and if it all played out like it does in the movies, John Tucker Must Die springs to mind, it would be a great idea. But in reality it seems more doomed to failure and most relationship specialists and psychologists will tell you that taking revenge is just not worth it. Although vengeance is something that experts acknowledge as being an understandable and normal reaction, it is by no means healthy. It may initially produce a cathartic and liberating feeling, yet experts say that this can soon turn bitter and end up taking both a psychological and physical toll on those who carry out acts of revenge. This is due to the endless cycle of retribution that revenge can initiate, which is unhealthy and obsessive to say the least. For many it can consume their lives and lead to the sacrificing of everyday social activities and aspirations. If you do choose to take revenge, think twice before committing a crime of passion that you may later regret, but just for fun, here are some of the top revenge stories: Hayley, Wife of Radio DJ Tim Shaw, after hearing her husband tell model Jodie Marsh, live on air, that he would leave his wife and kids for her, sold his Lotus Esprit Turbo sports car on eBay. The best bit is that she sold it for 50p and it was gone within five minutes! She later said “The car is his pride and joy but the idiot put my name on the logbook so I just sold it. I didn’t care about the money, I just wanted to get him back.”
Ryan Fitzjerald a tattoo artist, got revenge on his ex girlfriend by tattooing something on her back she’ll never forget. She claims her boyfriend was meant to tattoo a scene from Narnia on her back; however, he had his own ideas and instead tattooed an image of a pile of excrement with flies buzzing around it.
A woman named Emily made sure her ‘dirty, sneaky, immoral, unfaithful, poorly-endowed slimeball’ of a husband got what was coming to him when she paid for a billboard with their joint bank account indicating that she had found out he had been cheating on her. That’s sure to have hurt his wallet and his ego! Vignette O’Bryan
14 - 15 FEATURES
Girl : Do you know what deodorant does when you put it on your tongue? It dries it. Because deodorant is an anti-wettant.
Guy : ...So the problem was, you didn’t floss your feet?
Girl: What if the hokey cokey is really what it’s all about?
Guy: ...I think they’re pins. I mean they’re not needles...
Girl: ...You know how you talk about how you want to punch your mum?
Red Bull Soap Box Race: Looks awesome, anyone in?
Tesco’s Horse Burgers: Not for the fact of the horse meat, but for the truly atrocious puns which it prompted to be posted everywhere.
GOING DOWN
Guy 1 (using his laptop): Ouch my laptop shocks me if I put my arm on it. Guy 2: Stop doing it then Guy 1: Ohh, but I kinda like it
Twaping: Fraping on Twitter. Facebook is so 2012.
GOING UP
Lufbra overheard
Girl: Let’s just go to Echoes, cos at least that way you won’t be tempted to find a guy and take him home with you
Guy: how acceptable is it for a mid wife to drop a baby? I mean they are quite slippy when they come out?
fbra ur ‘Lu LIKE o eard’ h over on page k! oo b e Fac
February: Officially allowing us to no longer feel guilty about falling off the New Years resolution bandwagon. Toilet Bonding: Where all magical friendships begin.
The dietary cycle: I want to lose five pounds. No I should embrace my figure. Oh my GOD I’m a whale I’m not eating for six weeks... is that cake?
Moving to a new student house?
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Get ready for a mix of PeoPle! Think about the different personality types and how you’ll live together.
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Take the quiz online endsleigh.co.uk/quiz
The Boss
The Geek
The Party Animal
The Dodger
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phy by
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Ben Ja
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aroly ckson, C
on arah Wils
The this i winner o ssue f com ´s c p entry etition h aption as t toke o Hey Ew won fre ns. P e e and op cent re to into the drink cl m and l ook o aim your edia prize ut fo r the on next lufbr e on a.net /labe l
Label Caption competition:
“I didn’t realise breast feeding would be this painful!” - Carolyn
18 - 19 TOTTY SPOTTER
In aid of LSU’s charitable activities
Lecture Sport
Men’s Capsule Wardrobe
Dinner Date
Night Out
A great pair of fitted trousers is a staple in every man’s wardrobe. Style’s Katie Brown has put together four different looks to see you through any social occasion, and prove just how versatile this essential item is.
22 - 23 STYLE
Men’s Fashion Week Last year saw the debut of London Men’s fashion week in the UK, entitled The London Collections, which showcased some of the finest British menswear designers. Finally, it seems the fashion industry is sitting up and celebrating the attention menswear deserves. After Prince Charles launched the shows in June last year as part of the celebrations for the Olympic Games, the biannual event has fast become a mecca for the fashion elite. This year’s show, held back in the beginning of January, saw celebrities such as Harry Styles, James Corden and Tinie Tempah attend the three day spectacular, hosted in Covent Garden. London’s array of traditional British heritage tailoring, founded in Saville Row, is a global icon. So it wasn’t a surprise when many of the fashion houses showcased the best of their tailoring. Checked suits were shown at Tom Ford and Vivienne Westwood, and were also a hit in Paris. It doesn’t just stop at London, the demand for high fashion menswear is spreading around the world. Milan, Paris and Singapore are all hosting shows dedicated to menswear. Paris men’s fashion week held a few days after London saw the best of French designers, showing off their trends for Autumn/Winter ’13. Valentino saw men in sharp suits, check and hound tooth jumpers and Chelsea boots all with a 60’s inspired twist. Armani bravely showcased a male version of the leggings, fondly named ‘Meggings’. Men’s Fashion Week are home to some of the most controversial and innovative designs of recent years. Having a bad hair day? Well if you choose to invest in Craig Green’s wooden plank hat you can cover your hair and your face to avoid any embarrassment. Afraid of splinters? No
problem, Sibling sent oversized snoods and doughnut hats down the runway. No more bad hair days. London’s designers questioned the traditional androgyny we are accustomed to seeing on the female catwalks, and created a new meaning to the word by sending thought provoking pieces down the runway. Martine Rose created the most memorable item from the shows, a beer mat skirt. Perfect if you’re prone to spilling your pint. However, it was J W Anderson who really pushed the boundaries with a pair of camel frilly shorts paired with a matching strapless top. The design itself is stunningly simple, but don’t expect to see it on the streets of Loughborough anytime soon. Whilst some of the designs may be a little out there in terms of day-to-day wearability for the average man, we have put together the top 5 trends to keep an eye out for, come autumn time.
Check Mate
Think English and Scottish heritage and invest in checked suits, structured jackets and scarves, all of which were seen at Valentino, Paul Smith, Thom Browne and John Galliano.
Photography by Carolyn Brown
Section Design by Issy Locke, Ana Curbelo
Zip It
Usually known for their practicality, zips this season are very much a feature in their own right. Zips feature as detailing on jacket seams, jeans and pockets, coveted by the likes of Givenchy, McQueen, Saint Laurent and Dior Homme.
Colonel Mustard
Mustard was one of the key colours in Paris, (the other fuchsia) which adorned the likes of Hermes, Dries Van Noten, Lanvin and Paul Smith. Shades of light muted tones to the brightest hue are the perfect accompaniment to a darker outer layer.
Bigger is Better
Oversized jackets and blazers are an easy way to update your look. Richard Nicoll’s oversized suit is a great example of how to do this look without looking like a little boy dressing up in his father’s clothes.
Extreme Knits
Cable knit jumpers over checked shirts are timeless high street pieces, so stock up now and keep them for next season. Keep an eye out for turtlenecks in particular as they featured heavily in Paris at Maison Martin Margiela, Viktor & Rolf and Raf Simons. For something a little more controversial look to Sibling’s collection for inspiration which featured oversized knit wear with embroidered slogans such as ‘Kill Me Now’. Anna Birtwistle and Chloé Fallon Style Editors
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YES
Olivia Newall
I'm not arguing that computers and technology necessarily make us more aggressive, as how hostile we are I feel is down to our own nature and personal life experiences. I do however feel technology gives us the opportunity to be much more vicious if we want to, and very different to if we were having a face-to-face confrontation with someone. If we have those meaner tendencies within us, or the wish to potentially harm somebody, technology gives us an easy way to do this without having to deal with the consequences. Internet trolls who post harmful comments anonymously have caused great upset in the past, from young people having their first taste of social networking, to families involved in tragedy. In my opinion, if you post potentially destructive comments on the internet, then you do so to either socially impress your peers, because you have insecurities about yourself, or because you simply don’t care that much about hurting other people’s feelings. I don't feel technology is always to blame for those characteristics, but it definitely has a part within it. I know many people who find themselves in heated arguments over text or on social networking sites, and agree that the shield this form of communication provides resulted in them perhaps being a bit braver than if they had been having the same conversation in person. Communication through technology also has a large tendency to be misinterpreted as no tone or expression is associated with the writing - an argument could therefore be made that people can come across as much more aggressive. As a last example, take the very recent ‘Spotted’ pages. The popularity of this group quickly escalated as it provided a platform for some light-hearted banter to perk up those who had sold their soul for 3 weeks to live in the library. However, concerns were made when racist and offensive comments began appearing. As people had the ability to post these comments without having to suffer any consequences, it is in this kind of situation that technology can be potentially harmful to society. These kind of groups and pages are there for fun and if they are used responsibly can be enjoyable – unfortunately, this is not always the case.
COMP CULT
Steve Pugh, Year 2 (Engineering): “Yes technology has enabled people to be more open, sadly most of the time for the wrong reason as they don’t have the courage or bottle to say it to people’s faces themselves”.
Heather Ellender, Year 1 (Psychology): “I believe anonym ity on such pages can cause people to feel uneasy and self-cons cious about going to these ‘sp otted’ locations such as the libr ary, due to fear of being made fun of on public pages”.
PUTER TURE Sarah Haa r, Year 3 (M aths): “As long as pe ople don’t use it in an offensive way, I think anonymity can some times give someone that confid ence to exp ress their opinion wit hout being labelled”.
Photography by Carolyn Brown
(Media Rebecca Fairhead, Year 3 do agree “I s): ion cat uni and Comm us to be w allo that these websites feelings, true our ut abo n more ope ween bet nce but there’s a differe ; when ing cul ridi lic pub and honesty can it al son things become per become harmful”.
NO
Alex Davies
I’m not going to deny that bullying through technological devices doesn’t happen. I also won’t state that these forms of media cannot evoke feelings of aggression. I occasionally get pretty aggressive towards my laptop (What do you mean, can’t find the printer? IT’S RIGHT THERE!!!) However, suggesting that these technological devices encourage aggressive behaviour is absurd. The argument is that, because of the relative anonymity of people using social media, aggressors feel more able to get away with abuse. But people who are aggressive over online media don’t magically become so when they sit down at a laptop. If someone is a moron when online, they’re usually a moron in real life. The only difference is the lack of screen in front of them. There seems to be an assumption that as soon as a group of people get together online, they immediately become worst enemies, hurling expletives and harmful comments at each other. Err... no. That’s not the case for real life, why should it be for the internet? People have been contentious long before social media came along: back then, however, instead of posting a comment on Facebook, they punched you. Or stabbed you. Or declared war on your country. I’m not suggesting that Al Qaeda will move onto trolling YouTube instead of terrorism eventually, but the fact remains that technology is not the root of these problems. Yes, there is an advantage to being anonymous while bullying. Yet, at the same time, bullying via social media can be very difficult. Many sites have ways to prevent bullying from happening - Facebook and most e-mailing sites have message blockers. These provisions are there to discourage offensive behaviour. Of course people can be disruptive on the internet. The controversy over the ‘Spotted’ groups on Loughborough proves this. However, these are not nice people being provoked into this behaviour by the machines, these are the peoples of today’s culture, acting like children who have discovered a new toy, and I wish they’d take their culture back to wherever it came from.
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Kiva The Gift that
Keeps on Giving I don’t know if any of you are like me and experience a little niggling feeling when watching a charity aid related T.V programme? This is because I always want there to be a follow up show, just a little something, to make it seem possible that the buttons pressed on a phone could have a lasting effect on those desperately in need. Then one day, I came across something revolutionary which - with recognition - will be much better than simply donating money, because it will be helping to make money. This something is known as Kiva. A thriving online phenomenon in America, people donate twenty five dollars to one person, which builds up the loan into the amount required, and then the money is used to help the people develop their businesses and create profits. Superior to simply giving communities charitable aid, the scheme enables workers to get
out of the cycle of poverty whilst helping their economies. It also ensures that the money goes into the hands of the correct people, instead of the corrupt governments that are sadly still present in some parts of the world. From the sophisticated and eye catching web design, to the straightforward method of lending money, the group almost takes on the form of a social networking site. This allows you to see pictures of the people that will receive financial backing, and read what they are going to do with it. The website has a personal feel to it, and because you can see the direct impact, it allows every generation to have a sense of satisfaction that they are actually doing something significant. Visitors to the site can also have their own portfolio, featuring updates on the repayment of their loan, as well as the possibility
of gaining a free twenty five dollar loan from the site when they invite a friend to join. It is also possible to find an area that you feel more strongly about helping, as the people are grouped into sections according to the nature of their business, from agriculture to retail. It is easy to see why Kiva has reached a high level of success in America, as it has moved on with the times. Drastic changes can be made to those in need, without effecting the western world financially. It is a means in which young people can help developing countries, in a way that has never been seen before. Most importantly, it is a means by which we can all strive to be equal. Emma Tigchelaar
Visit kiva.org for more information
The Sci-Fi
Phenomenon 2013 promises to be a rampant year of Sci-Fi cinematic releases, with contributions from ‘Star Trek: Into Darkness’, ‘Oblivion’, ‘Pacific Rim’, ‘Iron Man 3’, ‘Man of Steel’ and ‘The Prototype’, to name but a few. So why has the sci-fi genre lately become such a big phenomenon? As Miriam Allen de Ford once noted, Science Fiction presents its viewers with ‘improbable possibilities, [whilst] fantasy portrays plausible impossibilities’, which suggests that we enjoy Sci-Fi due to its sense of reality, we watch these films with the anticipation that they may mirror some future aspect of human life. However improbable Sci-Fi scenarios may now appear, are they not foregrounded in some form of truth?
Illustration by Lauren Leftley
Section Design by Caz Smith, Ana Curbelo, Jan Baykara
Sonny of ‘iRobot’ fame has now become a stereotypical model for robotic development, ‘Independence Day’ has shaped our perceptions for the future of flying technology and so on. The visions of the future portrayed in films and books help to shape how we develop our ideas of what is to come. Notably, Sci-Fi reminds us how evil is always present, regardless of time. A Sci-Fi is never complete without its token ‘baddie’, something which says a lot about cinematic trends. An audience finds an antagonist absolutely irresistible, so of course the crazed psycho-killer is present in films concerning the future, on different planets and in different forms, as we just need someone we love to hate. There is something glamorous about the killer, as Richard Edgerton writes, ‘the Devil has the best tunes’ and because these antagonists come in different shapes and sizes, their mystique is massively enhanced. We wonder what is going on in the head of the ‘baddie’, if they think like a conventional ‘baddie’ or if they are a completely new kind. Scientific endeavour and exploration present a new set of possibilities in our universe, and Sci-Fi has greatly benefitted from this. We have satellites that can see great distances into space, and the possibility of extraordinary life looks more and more possible. Sci-Fi marks a public desire and a fascination to understand more about the universe and our position in it, with struggles between what we know and what we may possibly come across in the future. The genre that was once typically regarded as ‘nerdy’ has now pushed its way into mainstream culture in full force. James Safford
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Student AccOmmOdAtiOn CentRe University halls of residence
Off campus town accommodation
- Over 5000 beds - Catered and self-catered halls - 30% of rooms available to returning students for 2013-14
- Accredited landlords - Rooms for 2013-14 advertised on www.lborostudentpad.co.uk
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univeRSity AppROved accommodation
Want to return to hall? On-line applications are now closed, however there are still vacancies in certain halls. if you still wish to apply, please contact us to discuss the options available. Peace of mind - we will help you choose accommodation, be it halls or a house, that is right for you! campus living loughborough
01509 222258/222253 sac@lboro.ac.uk findahouse@lboro.ac.uk http://accommodation.lboro.ac.uk
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Take your ID card and load it up at the Student accommodation Centre or visit www.lboro.ac.uk/food-drink/cashplus
Opportunity. It’s staring you in the face.
Undergraduate and Graduate Opportunities It’s February already, so there’s no time to lose. Apply now to make the most of your opportunities with PwC in 2013. Text ‘PwC Loughborough’ to 60300* for a chance to win an iPad mini and get details of the events we’ll be attending at Loughborough this month.
Take the opportunity of a lifetime www.pwc.com/uk/loughborough www.facebook.com/PwCCareersUK © February 2013 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. All rights reserved. *Texts charged at your standard network rate.
label music
meets
Funeral for a Friend Funeral for a Friend returned last month with the release of their sixth studio album ‘Conduit’. The new album serves as the follow up to the critically acclaimed fifth studio album ‘Welcome Home Armageddon’, and is the first album released since the addition of new member Pat Lundy on drums. The five-piece Welsh band formed in 2001 and rose to fame following the release of their debut album ‘Casually Dressed’ and ‘Deep in Conversation’ in 2003. They are currently in the midst of an extensive UK tour, hitting Nottingham on February 8. Last month Label Music had the opportunity to email the band some questions regarding their experiences and upcoming album*. Ella Stanbrook Music Editor
What difficulties did you encounter when you were trying to get established?
In what way have they influenced Funeral for a Friend as a band?
I think the hardest thing for any band when they start is trying to I think as a kid learning to play juggle a job that pays the bills I was influenced by technique and doing the thing your most when trying to learn songs. passionate about. I don’t know a I’m self-taught so it’s the way single musician who hasn’t been I learned about palm mutes, broke at some point. Trying to hammer-ons etc. Later on I got build up a backline for touring can into song writing and listened to be hard and expensive but it’s all the songs as whole not individual earning your stripes so to speak. parts.
Was music always something you Your sixth studio album ‘Conduit’ all had always wanted to pursue is coming out later this month, seriously as a career? how does it compare/differ to your previous five? It’s hard to say honestly because I think it’s always something It’s the most stripped back and burning in the back of your mind honest record. We didn’t spend but it’s not something you dare to time over-thinking things we just dream of for fear of failing. When got into writing and played what we got our foot in the door we came naturally. I feel this is what made sure we jammed it open we do best and represent the and never looked back. music we care most for.
What do you prefer, touring abroad or at home in the UK?
I love playing shows anywhere. Playing live is the most incredible way to express your music to a listener.
Who are your musical idols?
What would be in your most played playlist on iTunes? Only You by The Flying Picketts. It’s one of my all-time favourite songs so I think it gets a blasting pretty regular.
What advice can you give to student bands at Loughborough?
Illustration by Deepesh Patel
As a band we have loads and we don’t all agree. For me I love Work hard and be honest to yourPantera, Iron Maiden, Boysetsself. If you don’t do something you fire, far, Smashing Pumpkins, believe in then you’ll regret it. Try Deftones, The Haunted, Buddy to be as original as possible and Holly. I could honestly go on all have fun with it. You don’t want to day. look back in years to come and think what if. *(Questions answered by guitarist Kris Coombs-Roberts)
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cast on Radio 2 much to the adoration of Steve Lamacq, Lauren Laverne and Tom Robinson. It would seem The Slow Show are doing everything right at the moment.
The Slow Show describes their sound as: ‘Neil Young, Tom Waits & Bob Dylan but also fellow Northern bands such as Elbow and I Am Kloot echoing throughout their music’. They certainly are reminiscent of I am Kloot, but with a distinct old school country twang, evident in a certain Bruce Springsteen cover they released on their website. ‘Brother’, the leading single, from which the EP is named, espouses a heart wrenching nostalgia with its slow country tones, creating the visceral tones that have already brought them such quick success.
How do they sound? Well, Slow. Mellow, as if every note was a perfectly thought out stroke of paint across a beautiful landscape canvas. Listen to ‘Northern Town’ or ‘God Only Knows’ for more evidence. Their slightly American influences seep out of frontman Robert Goodwin’s every word. The end result is a feeling of listening to a genuinely refined product, despite only having been together for a year. You can see why Guy Garvey likes the collective so much.
Their goosebump-inducing, melodically warm live shows have certainly struck a chord with their audience. This includes one audience member Guy Garvey who liked their sound so much, he decided to have them support Elbow on their Cathedral concert, which was broad-
What next for The Slow Show? They’re currently working on another EP and will not be touring until the end of the summer, unfortunate for anyone hoping to catch them live anytime soon. In the meantime give both ‘Brother’ and ‘Midnight Waltz’ a listen. They don’t disappoint. Tim Moss
Section Design by Jan Baykara, Ana Curbelo
Recently formed in Manchester are the dynamic, folky bunch, The Slow Show, who are already making waves across the country with their new EP, Brother.
Photography by Dominic Marley
Label Loves: The Slow Show
Aerosmith:
Label Music Album Reviews:
Music From Another Dimension Aerosmith, remember them? Well, Steven Tyler and co are back with their first studio album in 11 years. I bring you, ‘Music From Another Dimension’. In true Aerosmith style, they open the album with a haunting dialog, beginning: ‘There is nothing wrong with your perception of reality, do not attempt to adjust the illusion’ before continuing until the Love in an Elevator-esque guitar kicks in and Steve Tyler’s voice hits. You would never have thought that the band had been away the way that this album goes. The western style rock that we all know and love of Aerosmith is as strong as ever, with extremely catchy guitar riffs in songs such as the first single off the album: ‘Legendary Child’, which features lyrics from one of the bands best known songs ‘Walk This Way’.
Illustration by Lauren Leftley
The rocking continues throughout, although, no Aerosmith album would be complete without a monster of a ballad or two. ‘What Could Have Been Love’ fills that void. Despite being in their 60’s, the ‘Bad Boys from Boston’ sure still know how to make a hit. At the age of 62, Joey Kramer shows that he still knows how to play a killer drum set throughout the album, but most impressively on the heavier track ‘Lover Alot’ where he plays a solo to introduce the song. Accompanied by the incredible squealing guitar solo from Joe Perry and the motor mouth vocals from Tyler, they provide what is sure to be a crowd pleaser and potentially an all-time great from the Americans. The highlight of the Album is by far ‘We All Fall Down’. The epic love ballad showcases that Steven Tyler has not lost his voice at all and the song is of the same quality of ‘I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing’. This album is possibly the best rock album of 2012, and one thing is for sure, if Aerosmith can still perform live as well as they can still record albums, they will be one band not to miss if and when they tour.
My Rating: 9/10 Dan Nicholson Music Editor
sic Label Mu the f Playlist o ht Fortnig
thers Avett Bro You – The d n A o e h v W I And Lo eilly – The it Baba O’R Happy – Passion P m I’ rs lt e u e a F in y m M u L It’s Not air – The In Your H – The Cure Flowers e v o L In miths Friday I’m n – The S rming Ma This Cha
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Sculpt your upper body; Ultimate workout.
What does your fitness really cost you? Loughborough plays host to many of the country’s sporting elite and is called home by many ripped, toned and fit individuals who inhabit Powerbase. To achieve the perfect body you have to be prepared to put in the hours at the gym and in the kitchen; but what does your fitness really cost you? Is it really worth spending the last of your student loan on the gym? When questioned, students outlaid spending from over £3000 a year to as little as a new pair of trainers per year. Common expenses ranged from the annual fees for gym membership; many opting for the ‘health club’ experience rather than a standard gym, supplements such as protein, creatine and BCAAs, as well as branded outerwear which must be replaced continuously throughout the year. Do they believe it’s all worth it?
Shoulder Push Ups Don’t neglect your shoulders, they keep your body in proportion. With one leg raised behind you and your arms in press up position aim to lower yourself to 90 Degrees and push strongly back to the top. Try 10 of these for 3 sets and you should really feel the burn.
3rd year female student “I know that if I didn’t go to a gym then I wouldn’t be as fit. I am motivated enough to keep going so I could go to a gym somewhere cheaper, but I like LA Fitness. I suppose for others who join and never go it’s obviously not worth it.” 3rd year Physiotherapy student “Proper footwear is essential for anyone who is running for longer than 15mins, and by proper shoes I mean Asics or New Balance, definitely not Nike air or Adidas ones. The downside to this is that you won’t get any change out of £90 for long distance shoes.
2nd year male student “It’s worth it when you’re on holiday with a ripped body and you feel so much more confident on nights out. I do feel like I’m paying over the odds for the gym though. Basically, if you’re committed to the gym and you eat well, you’ll see results and it’s worth it. If you’re half heated, it’s all a waste.” 3rd year female student “It’s too expensive if you buy into it all. But if you take a good old fashioned approach to a healthy lifestyle then it can be cheap!”
What is fitness though? Is it maximal strength or as low a resting heart rate as possible? Some see everything in fitness as overpriced, over marketed and a band wagon people like to jump on for a quick fix cure to getting big or losing weight. Proper footwear for runners is essential and proper technique for weight lifting is crucial to prevent injury.
Single Leg Dips Forget worrying about those bingo wings any longer with these single leg dips. Raise one leg in the air whilst the other remains on the floor for support, with your arms at a right angle behind you move downwards slowly so you can feel your triceps working. Aim to complete 10 on each side for 3 sets.
Is fitness as simple as hitting the road running or does it require all the added extras? You decide. Rebecca Oldham Sports Editor
Loughborough Lightning Preview With the disappointment of last season’s fifth placed finish put to bed, Loughborough Lightning are looking to start their 2013 netball campaign with an away win against Team Northumbria on February 11. Loughborough Lightning play the highest standard of netball in the East Midlands, competing in the National Superleague. The squad is made up of students and regional players, and with the Superleague’s profile growing across the world, international players are being lured into the league too. Lightning have been fortunate to attract new recruits in Vanessa Walker and Nikita Piggott who will both bring a wealth of experience including playing internationally with Barbados and Jamaica respectively.
Illustration by Greg Carter, Katharine Simmons
This seasons new look squad has seen third year student Sophia Candappa step up to become Lightning’s captain for the season. Candappa has been part of the England Squad for last month’s test series against Australia. Lightning have been unfortunate to lose some of their most influential players since their most successful season in 2008/2009 when they narrowly missed out in the grand final to Mavericks. Many internationals have come and gone across the seasons, often being enticed to play in the ANZ championships down under. With the departure of Head Coach, Olivia Murphy, at the end of January, it will take some hard work on the court to reach the play-offs at the end of the season. Ex-England captain Olivia has been extremely influential within the club; progressing from player, to player-manager and finishing her Lightning journey as Head Coach. Jo Webb has taken over the head coach role. Lightning’s first home game of Phase 1, to be aired on Sky Sports, is against fierce rivals Surrey Storm on Monday 18 February, starting at 8pm.
res e fixtu r hom ase 1 e h t r u F Ph ed for releas follows: s a e ar ons ic Drag v. Celt g in n ht gh Lig arch e Jets borou 16 M g v. Yorkshir Lough in n t h gh Lig borou 23 March Lough t nline a able o /loughbor il a v a m re o a .c s t t r e spo Tick rough / ughbo h-lightning lo / :/ p g t ht ou
Chloe Hemmings Sports Editor
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Loughborough students bring home Australian Youth Olympic Festival Medals. Team GB, who sent 114 athletes, arrived home from Australia victorious after competing in 11 Olympic sports winning 66 medals overall, comprising of 19 gold, 23 silver and 24 bronze. A number of the medals came from Loughborough students who compete regularly for the University’s BUCs teams. The festival was held across various venues of the Sydney 2000 Olympics between January 1620. It was an opportunity for young elite athletes to face up to the 30 other nations competing. The event saw around 1,700 athletes competing in 17 Olympic disciplines. A number of Loughborough Hockey Club students claimed the men’s silver medal and women’s bronze medal. Men’s captain, Andy Bull, who already boasts twelve senior England caps, led the U21 men side to a hard fought final battle with hosts Australia. The squad eventually lost the dramatic final 5-4, however they achieved their massive target of making the final. Other members of the Men’s U21 squad from Loughborough included: Harry Gibson, Robert Farringdon and Daniel Faulkner.
The men recorded positive wins against Malaysia and USA during the group stages; but the strength of Australian squad is not to be doubted after previously losing 6-4 en route to the final. Team GB and Loughborough goalkeeper, Harry Gibson said: ‘This performance gives us a lot of confidence and promise for this team for the future. This has been a massive learning curve and we have been soaking everything up.’ Loughborough women also represented Team GB in Sydney with Giselle Ansley, Robyn Collyns, Josie Inverdale (Leicester Ladies) and Suzannah Petty and went on to secure a bronze medal against USA. Team GB beat USA for the second time in the tournament after an extra time showdown and a scrappy penalty corner. Further results saw the women take hard fought loses to Australia and China but a 5-0 victory against USA gifted them a pass to the bronze medal showdown. Loughborough student Giselle Ansley has been called up for her first England cap since her arrival back in the UK and will compete with fellow Loughborough student Laura Unsworth and Loughborough college alumni Nicola White in South Africa for the Investec Challenge Cup. Rebecca Oldham Sport Editor
Photography by Tim Ives, Sarah Wilson
After the Olympic fever London 2012 sparked across the globe, it was the turn of the next generation of stars to challenge for youth Olympic medals bringing home a plethora of gold, silver and bronze.
Doping and Cycling Looking through the list of Tour de France winners, there is a certain artistic significance to the three periods without a victor - 1915-18, 1940-46 and 19992005. Of course it would be hyperbolic to the extreme to put the third period on an equal standing with the first two – but it does provide an interesting commentary to how hard the ramifications of the Lance Armstrong scandal have hit the world of cycling. Based on the testimonies of other riders, and now Armstrong himself, cycling in the 90s and early 00s had a serious drug culture. He was careful not to reveal too much, but from what he told Oprah during those fateful interviews in January, one can infer that the majority of riders in the Tour were doping. This is what his few remaining supporters cling to in his defence. For a young cyclist it would be difficult to buck the trend of doping single-handedly, and it’s easy to understand that he wanted to achieve what he described as a ‘level playing field’. However, as the poster boy of world cycling, his inspirational story and celebrity status had made him the biggest name cycling had ever seen. He had a unique opportunity to confront the issue of drugs once and for all, but he passed it by, in order to keep winning. If the doping alone was sufficient to render Armstrong a disgrace, anyone would struggle to find enough superlatives to describe his conduct for the next 7 years after winning his last tour. Adamantly denying any wrong-doing and suing anyone who got close to the truth may have prolonged the point where he was proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt; but now his actions are simply ammunition that can be used in the case against him. Of course Armstrong shouldn’t be allowed to compete at an elite level in any sport for the rest of his life. He has done too much to damage cycling. Fortunately, we are led to believe that since the UCI’s blood passport system was introduced in 2008, doping is in steep decline. If Armstrong has any respect left for his love of cycling, he will assist the UCI, USADA and WADA in their investigations to ensure justice is served to those involved. I then sincerely hope that he fades out of the public eye altogether and allows cycling to find its feet again. Bryn Proudlove-Wilkes
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