Cycling Board Upholds Trans Woman’s Victory in New Mexico Race Amid Controversy

Union Cycliste Internationale approved the result of a women’s race in New Mexico won by a biological male, despite the outrage of many critics.

Austin Killips, a woman cyclist, won the Tour of the Gila on Sunday.

The 27-year-old had only started cycling in 2019.

The UCI approved Killips’ win after reviewing the race. This was based on the new rule that allows cyclists to have higher testosterone levels.

The UCI rules were based on scientific discoveries and applied consistently. They continue to evolve as scientific knowledge advances, the organization stated in a press release.

The organization said that “scientific knowledge evolves” and it could change the rules.

Inga Thomson, a former Olympic cyclist, has criticized the UCI for its decision.

“[UCI Cycling] has effectively killed women’s cycling through this movement.” Thompson asked: “Do they not realize the damage that they are doing when sponsors discuss leaving the sport due to the controversy created because UCI has failed to lead?”

She continued to claim that the Tour of the Gila “removed” itself from the discussion about the transgender cycling’s win.

She added, “Understandable as the transgender movement is driving away sponsorship and killing women’s cycling.”

In a statement published on Instagram, Killips dismissed the criticism that was received via Twitter.

Killips wrote: “After a whole week of internet nonsense, I’m particularly grateful to all those in the peloton who have continued to insist that Twitter was not real.” “I love my competitors and peers, and I am grateful for each opportunity to grow and learn as an athlete and person on the course with them.”

Some Republican legislators have supported legislation that aims to prevent biological males from participating in sports reserved for women. However, critics claim these laws are motivated by hatred and discrimination.

Find out more about the controversy.