In a recent women's cycling competition, two transgender athletes, Tessa Johnson and Evelyn Williamson, secured the top two positions, sparking a wave of controversy.
Critics argue that their victories represent an "assault" on the rights of biological female competitors, with some describing the situation as "outrageous."
The Illinois State Cyclocross Championships saw 25-year-old Johnson clinch the first place in the women's Single Speed category, while 30-year-old Williamson came in second. The duo had previously incited controversy when they secured the same ranks at the Chicago CycloCross Cup in October.
The only biological female to secure a medal at the Illinois event was Kristin Chalmers, who shared the podium with Johnson and Williamson.
Johnson, who also secured third place in the women's half race, earning $100 in prize money, had previously competed in men's categories at Clemson University. However, her winning streak began only after she transitioned and started competing as a transgender female.
On the other hand, Williamson has been competing in the women's category since 2017 and has earned 18 titles. In 2020, she participated in both the men's and women's categories at the Sky Express Winter Criterium. She secured first place in the women's category but did not place against the men.
The recent victories of the pair have reignited the debate over whether transgender athletes have an unfair advantage over biological females. Piers Morgan, a Post columnist, questioned, "Why aren't more women standing up for this assault on their rights?" Tennis legend Martina Navratilova criticized the cyclists, describing them as "more mediocre male bodies taking podium places from female athletes."
Podcaster Megyn Kelly expressed her frustration over their victories, calling them "infuriating." Former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines offered to compensate any female cyclists who boycott future USA Cycling competitions until the rules on transgender athletes are revised.
"Any woman who concedes and doesn't compete, I will personally pay them the prize money they're missing out on," she pledged, urging them to "stop participating in the farce."
The organizers of the Illinois event have not yet responded to requests for comment. However, following the Chicago race in October where Johnson and Williamson took the top two spots, the organizers stated that transgender riders would always be welcome.
The Chicago Cyclocross Cup's website states, "If you have found your way to a [Chicago Cyclocross Cup] event to race your bike and hopefully have some fun in the process then youre welcome here," emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment of any kind.
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