When it comes to surfing, transgender athletes should have their own division, pro surfer Bethany Hamilton says.
“Soul Surfer” Bethany Hamilton has announced that she will not compete in or support the World Surf League (WSL) as long as the organization allows trans women to compete in women’s surfing. Hamilton, who is a shark attack survivor and a Christian, expressed her views in two Instagram videos posted this week.
“While I address this issue, I want to be clear that I strive to have love for all of mankind, regardless of any differences,” said Hamilton in her first video.
She also says that while she does not personally have any issues with transgender people, allowing biological men to compete in the women’s division is unfair to biological women.
“This concerns me as a professional athlete that has been competing in the World Surf League events for the past 15-plus years,” Hamilton added. “I think many of the girls currently on tour are not in support with this new rule and they fear being ostracized if they speak up.”
Hamilton suggests that the World Surf League create a separate division for transgender surfers. Then, they can compete on a level-playing field against one another.
Additionally, Hamilton questions the processes that are used to determine that biological men are able to compete against women.
“Is a hormone level an honest and accurate depiction that someone, indeed, is a male or female? Is it really as simple as this?” Hamilton asks. “How did whoever decided these ‘hormone rules’ come to the conclusion that 12 months of testing testosterone make it a fair and legal switch?”
She notes that other sports that have adopted similar rules have had their issues.
“We are seeing glimpses of male-bodied dominance in women’s sports like running, swimming, and others,” Hamilton said.
Finally, she makes her stance very clear.
“I personally won’t be competing in, or supporting, the World Surf League if this rule remains.”
WATCH:
Surfing champion Bethany Hamilton has just announced she will NOT compete in the World Surf League anymore if they allow biological men to surf in the women’s events. She’s already an absolute legend but this stand makes her even more of a legend. Thank you @bethanyhamilton! pic.twitter.com/gF2qa7cD84
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) February 5, 2023
Most rational people understand that being born male gives a person a physical advantage in athletic competitions over female athletes.
When will the madness end?
Source: 100PercentFedUp
