Glenique Frank, a transgender woman who ran the London Marathon in the female category, has offered to give her medal back following the controversy surrounding her victory over approximately 14,000 female runners.
Frank's win stirred criticism after she mentioned her excitement about becoming a grandmother in a BBC interview. She explained to the New York Post that the London Marathon was the first race where she could participate using her chosen name and gender.
However, for several upcoming races, including New York City, Tokyo, and Boston, Frank must use the name and gender listed on her passport.
"If they want me to give my medal back, I'll say, 'OK, fine. No problem'," Frank told the New York Post. "If they really think I've stolen the place [of a female runner], I don't mind giving the medal back because I'll run again next year for charity."
Frank's entry into the female category of the London Marathon has raised concerns about the fairness of the competition. Two-time Olympian Mara Yamauchi criticized Frank's victory, stating on Twitter, "Males in the [female] category is UNFAIR for females. Nearly 14,000 actual females suffered a worse finish position [because] of him."
Frank acknowledged that she does not have a "womb," but she maintained that she did not compete as an elite runner and did not "steal any money." She expressed her understanding that some people may be upset with her participation in the race.
"I've known since I was 5 that I was in the wrong body," Frank said.
Frank has indicated that she plans to continue running marathons and intends to enter the London race next year as "other" or "male" to "just keep everybody happy." She has previously run at an event in New York City wearing a bra and a wig.
As a British citizen, Frank identifies as female. After completing her 17th career marathon, Frank spoke excitedly about using "girl power" to help her through the race.
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