AB Hernandez won first place in girls’ long jump, high jump, and triple jump at a regional final in California on 16 May. Hernandez is a 17-year-old trans athlete who has faced controversy and backlash for competing in girls’ categories under California Interscholastic Federation policies introduced in 2025. The policies allow trans women to compete in female categories in line with California non-discrimination laws. If a transgender competitor wins a medal or advances, the second-place athlete also receives the medal. In the high jump, Hernandez shared the first-place podium with second-place athlete Gwynneth Mureika, who received a gold medal. Reports also describe some competitors ignoring Hernandez or skipping the podium, alongside visible protest messaging at the event.
"The publication reports that some of Hernandez's rivals looked to be icing her out, while others skipped the podium completely. Reese Hogan, who finished third in high jump, has been a vocal critic of trans athletes competing in women's categories. Similarly, some people in attendance on Saturday reportedly wore pink shirts which read: "Protect Girls Sports"."
#transgender-athletes #girls-sports #cif-eligibility-rules #track-and-field #california-high-school-athletics
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