Openly Gay Mountain-Bike Racer Missy Giove Arrested

One of the first female superstars of mountain-bike racing, Missy Giove, made a name for herself in the 90s with her outlandish looks, her break-neck riding and being open about her sexuality. The former world champion is now facing 40 years in jail for marijuana distribution.

Drug Enforcement Administration officials seized over 400 pounds of marijuana and $1 million in cash that was allegedly in Giove and Eric Canori's possession.

Appearing in court on Wednesday, June 17th, the two were remanded to the custody of U.S. Marshals to await detention hearings scheduled for Thursday.

If Giove and Conari are convicted of the charges they will face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 40 years in jail as well as fines up to $2 million. 

During her career she managed to earn an incredible 14 National Off-Road Bicycle Association championships as well as 11 World Cup wins. At the height of her career she was the most recognizable athlete in her sport and was featured in advertisements for Reebok. 

(Photo: Getty Images)