Bethany Hamilton, the professional surfer who has dominated the waves for over 15 years, is making waves again. This time, it’s not for her impressive surfing skills but for her bold stance against the World Surf League’s (WSL) new policy on transgender athletes. The champion surfer has announced that she won’t compete in future WSL events if it upholds this controversial rule, and is speaking out against it to raise important questions about the accuracy of testosterone levels in determining someone’s gender and the impact of male-bodied dominance in women’s sports.
Hamilton, who rose to fame after surviving a shark attack and quickly returning to surfing, is a woman of strength and courage. She lost her arm in the attack in 2003 but never lost her passion for the sport. She went on to become a national champion and a beloved figure in the WSL. With this latest move, Hamilton is showing her unwavering commitment to love for all mankind and her willingness to stand up for those who fear being ostracized if they speak out.
WSL’s New Transgender Policy
The WSL recently announced that it would adopt the International Surfing Association’s policy on transgender participation. The policy requires trans-female athletes to maintain a testosterone level of less than five nmol/L for at least 12 months to compete in the women’s division. This allows an athlete who was assigned male at birth and now identifies as a woman to compete in women’s events if their testosterone levels meet the requirements.
Hamilton’s Stand on the Policy
Hamilton questions the accuracy of testosterone levels in determining someone’s gender. She personally won’t compete in or support the WSL if this rule remains and thinks the best solution would be to create a different division for all to have a fair opportunity to showcase their talent. Hamilton raised concerns about “male-bodied dominance” in women’s sports such as running and swimming.
The WSL has not responded to CNN’s request for comment, but says that the policy change aligns the sport with Olympic guidelines and is working to balance equity and fairness. Hamilton acknowledges that the subject is difficult and may not have the perfect answer.
Bethany Hamilton, the Champion
Hamilton wants to have love for all mankind and stand up for others who fear being ostracized if they speak out. She questions if the current surfers in the World Surf League were asked for their thoughts and opinions on the new rule before it was passed or announced.
Hamilton’s Hope for the Future
Hamilton expressed her hope for a bright future for women in surfing and for her daughter if she ever has one. She addressed the backlash she received after speaking out in a second video on Instagram and claimed she was supported by other female surfers on the WSL tour. Other WSL surfers posted messages of support in response to Hamilton’s video.
Bethany Hamilton’s stand on the new transgender policy of the World Surf League raises important questions about the accuracy of testosterone levels in determining someone’s gender and the impact of male-bodied dominance in women’s sports. Hamilton’s hope for a bright future for women in surfing and for her daughter highlights the importance of creating a fair and equal opportunity for all.
