In a development that has reignited debate over transgender participation in sports, two biological men clinched the top two spots in a women’s cycling race held in Chicago.
The competition, which took place on October 7 at the Chicago CycloCross Cup (CCC), saw 25-year-old Tessa Johnson and 30-year-old Evelyn Williamson securing gold and silver, respectively, in the Women’s Single Speed and Cat Half categories.
The bronze was awarded to Allison Zmuda, the only biological female to make it to the podium in the Single Speed race.
The New York Post reports that in the previous year, Williamson had participated in both men’s and women’s categories, securing first place in the women’s division while failing to place in the men’s race.
This outcome meant that Johnson and Williamson took home the top cash prizes of $150 and $75, respectively.
The organizers of the CCC made their stance clear, stating on their website that they have no objections to biological men competing against biological women.
“If you have found your way to a CCC event to race your bike and hopefully have some fun in the process… then you’re welcome here,” read the message on their website.
The CCC added that its focus is on “fostering a positive & supportive community built around competitive cyclo-cross racing,” and affirmed that they adhere to USA Cycling’s Transgender Athlete Participation policies.
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The event has not been without its critics. Linda Blade, a former track and field coach, lambasted the organizers, asserting that the competitions should no longer be designated as “women’s events.”
“Race organizers of USAcycling need to stop calling these ‘women’s events.’ You are fooling nobody,” Blade said. “These are ‘beta-male races’ where some women get to be involved. In the process, you are turning your ‘sport’ into a joke.”
The response to this on X, formerly known as Twitter, was harsh:
Here’s a good idea:
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