Updated throughout the day with quick takes from staff.
Charles Barkely, fresh off his release from prison for DUI, joined Howard Eskin on Philly sports radio yesterday to discuss, among other topics, the dangers of drinking and driving. Dangers that, based on the unbelievable number of times Barkley’s done it, he now realizes all too well:
You never think about until something bad happens. But seriously, I can’t sit here and lie or BS you, I’m never going to be like that. But I’ve probably been out drinking and driving 100 times a year when, you know, you just eat and you drink or whatever, and you just get behind the wheel of a car and you don’t even think about it.Drinking and driving 100 times a year? Wow. I mean, I’m not even angry; that’s just impressive*. I don’t even drink 100 days out of the year, let alone get behind the wheel of a car after doing so. Come to think of it, Barkley’s arrest may have been the single most important DUI ever handed out. America's roads are now approximately 3.2% safer.I mean, I’m just going out drinking with dinner, or just going out drinking with you and the boys, and just like, “Let me go home.” It’s like, don’t even think about it. But this gave me, like, “Man, you could kill somebody!”
*The Sporting Blog in no way condones drunk driving. You’re much better off drinking until you pass out face first on your buddy’s floor. It’s more comfortable than a jail cell.
(H/T: Sports By Brooks, via The 700 Level)
This post originally appeared on the Sporting Blog. For more, see The Sporting Blog Archives.
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Thanks for being straight up and honest Charles. Mia
by miatay on Mar 13, 2009 12:30 PM EDT reply actions
Are all professional/former athletes as dumb as this one. Seriously, If I am a DD for the night I know not to drink; as well, I have a few unexpected drinks then I take a cab! Can’t imagine the amount of stupidity it would take in order to go to my car and not even think about the fact I have had drinks and could seriously harm others (if I hurt myself that’s my own fault and deserve it). How can one say, thanks for being honest—maybe something like "you should really have your license taken as I will still be confident in the fact you will continue to drink and drive if you had not figure it out before now"
by indigo on Mar 13, 2009 1:57 PM EDT reply actions
Charles Barkley should do PSAs telling people not to drink and drive.
by asdfsdafsd on Mar 13, 2009 4:36 PM EDT reply actions
I was severely critized when I came down on Charles for drinking and driving, but having worked in this area for several years before I retired, I knew that he had an alcohol problem. All of the signs were there. At least he has gotten past the denial part. Admitting that you have a problem with alcohol is half the battle. I can only wish him well with the other half—-habit and chemical dependency.
You have to give up alcohol completely Charles. There is no half way. Once you make up your mind to do it, it’s not really that hard. I know…I did it. It only seems that way when you first start. All it takes is a combination of determination, stubborness and pride in yourself.
by BradKT on Mar 13, 2009 5:41 PM EDT reply actions
It is good to see Sir Charles having finally grew up and accepted what he did. He did his time, but instead of letting it go, he is opening up and apperas to be looking for help. Way to go Charles.
by CrestTeam on Mar 13, 2009 8:17 PM EDT reply actions
Charles, did you ever think about getting into politics? You have clearly demonstrated the necessary pre-requisites.
by Bilh52 on Mar 14, 2009 12:10 AM EDT reply actions
Once can only hope Barkley’s finally grown up and arrived at the
conclusion that drunk driving is not only absymally stupid but
dangerous as hell. Judging from what he said, it’s a miracle Barkley
hadn’t killed anyone or himself. I’m no fan of Barkley, but I
understand that the world of sports is more interesting with him in it,
so if he’s finally figured it all out, all the better for him and the
rest of his life.
by Flashjeff on Mar 15, 2009 10:45 AM EDT reply actions
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