"A female runner accused of being a man tonight took gold in the 800m World Athletics Championship.
South African Caster Semenya, 18, had to take a gender test after doubts were raised about her sex.
But despite the furore, she easily took gold in the final in Berlin.
The teenage sensation has sparked controversy over her strikingly muscular physique.
Today officials at the world athletics body, the IAAF, revealed that it ordered her to take a gender test three weeks ago.
IAAF spokesman Nick Davies confirmed the tests were taking place, though he said the results would not be confirmed for several weeks."
I don't even know what to say about this brew-ha-ha. It's like the past 100 years of anti-feminism dumped on this poor 18 year old all in one massive media disaster. She's too fast, therefore she mustn't be a she. She's too "muscular," therefore she must be a he.
She doesn't fit everyone's stereotype of what a woman should be, so she's gotta be......must be a guy.
The sad part of this is she just won Worlds and instead of being celebrated she's being turned into a joke. And how will the world apologize when, after blood tests, psychiatric tests and a gynecological exam it turns out that all the haters were just stupid men thinking with their.....
This is nothing new, women upsetting society's idea of what they're supposed to be. Society abhors a standout that isn't also a man. What kind of message does that send to kids? Don't step out of line girls, or the world governing body of sport will send you to a shrink and inspect your genitalia.
You've come a long way, Baby! It is amazing to have grown up in a time period where women have gone from working as housewives and nurses to piloting the space shuttle. And I gladly support the change.
ReplyDeleteThe scary part is, I see more and more women actually turning their backs on education, careers and success to revert to the more traditional roles full time (numerous examples in my industry at least). It is a perfectly acceptable option but it comes with a price.
And I think society is to blame in some part by not offering the career flexibilty that women and men need to work and raise a family. Often, it is the only option.