Surfer Bethany Hamilton Refuses To Compete Against Trans Women

Surfer Bethany Hamilton found some support online from fellow athletes after she spoke out against the World Surf League’s (WSL) rules governing transgender women competing in events.

Hamilton stated in an Instagram video that she would not be taking part in WSL events, if the rule was not changed. The WSL said transgender female athletes need to maintain a testosterone level of 5 nmol/L for at least a year to participate in the women’s division.

Hamilton stated in her video that she would prefer to see WSL create another division.

“I personally think that the best solution would be to create a different division so that all can have a fair opportunity to showcase their passion and talent – and I think it’s really hard to imagine what the future of women’s surfing will be like in 15-20 years down the road if we move forward allowing this major change,” She said.

Hamilton raised questions and received support online.

Olympic gold medalist skier Julia Mancuso and NCAA All-American swimmer Riley Gaines expressed support for Hamilton in the Instagram comments section of her video.

“I support you Bethany,” Mancuso wrote. “Thanks for speaking up for all women and girls out there. Those are all interesting questions to navigate this difficult topic and let’s hope we can keep fighting for the future of womens sports.”

Gaines added: “THANK YOU for using your platform to share this. I can’t express how inspiring this is.”

Hamilton was also supported by Shane Dorian, a former competitive surfer champion.

“Speak your truth! Thank you for being brave enough to stand up for what you believe,” He wrote. “Don’t listen to people who hurl the word transphobic at anyone who’s beliefs don’t align perfectly with theirs. These are complicated problems with no clear solution. Regardless, there many people who love and support the trans community who agree with you on these issues.”

Hamilton clarified her points in the comments.

“I was messaging with a friend who is a part of the (LGBTQ) community and I really don’t think at this point there is a solution that will please everyone,” She wrote. “There are different world views and that is part of life. Although I might not know the answer, it is possible to provide a better solution. However, I feel the same way and will stand by what I have shared here.

“I mentioned Testosterone because that is how the Olympics and World Surf League decide if you can compete as a women.”

Jessi Miley – Dyer, Chief of Sport for WSL, told The Inertia Friday that the league had reached an unanimous decision.

“The WSL is working hard to balance equity and fairness and it’s important for a policy to be in place,” Miley-Dyer said. “We recognize that the policy may need to evolve over time as we get feedback and see new research in the field.”

Fox News’ Maureen Mackey contributed to this report.

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