Transgender hurdler CeCe Telfer—the first biological guy to win an NCAA women’s title—is determined to shatter all records in the forthcoming women’s indoor track and field season.
After World Athletics, the worldwide governing body for track and field, prohibited athletes who had reached male puberty from participating in elite women’s international championships, Telfer lost her eligibility to compete in the Olympics last year.
But Telfer is determined to leave her mark on the sport despite this setback.
After failing to meet USA Track & Field’s testosterone requirement, 29-year-old Telfer’s could not compete in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
However, this gifted hurdler is determined to pursue her goals and has no intention of giving up.
“I’m excited for indoor track because 2024 indoors will be incredible. I was robbed of my dreams once more. I therefore intend to return to New England, attend every indoor competition, and collect all of the records, names, and other relevant information.” Telfer was quoted as saying by the Washington times.
Champion hurdler avoids restricted states and competes without attachment
The former Franklin Pierce University student has competed as an “unattached” athlete, unaffiliated with any collegiate programme, after taking first place in the 2019 NCAA Division II women’s 400-metre hurdles. She competes in events that are not governed by World Athletics.
Telfer competes in New England but stays out of states that have passed Fairness in Women’s Sports laws. Under these laws, the athletes’ eligibility to compete in events is based on their birth sex. These laws are now in effect in 24 states governed by Republicans but not in states headed by Democrats.