'Create a different division': Bethany Hamilton boycotts World Surf League tour over new trans eligibility policy
KAUAI, HAWAII: Bethany Hamilton will boycott the World Surf League tour as it changed the rule allowing transgenders to compete against women. The inspirational surfer, who lost an arm in a shark attack when she was 13, is speaking out as they weren't taken into account to decide on the rule change.
The International Surfing Association's (ISA) transgender policy has been made public by the World Surf League (WSL), allowing all transgender athletes to participate in women's contests.
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Why is Bethany Hamilton boycotting the tour?
Hamilton posted two videos on her Instagram account in which she said: "Today I want to address the news that the World Surf League has officially made the rule that male-bodied individuals known as transgender athletes can officially compete in the women's division".
"I personally won’t be competing in or supporting the World Surf League if this rule remains,” she further added. Hamilton questioned the policy by asking, “Is a hormone level an honest and accurate depiction that someone indeed is a male or female? Is it as simple as this? I strive to have a love for all of mankind, regardless of any differences,” she added she wants to stand up for others who fear being “ostracized” if they speak out.
'Hard to imagine the future'
Hamilton slammed the policy by further predicting how the policy will change the future of the women's game. “I think it’s really hard to imagine what the future of women’s surfing will be like in 15 to 20 years down the road if we move forward allowing this major change,” she said. “My hope is that if I ever had a daughter who is competing in surfing or any sport, and also for all the aspiring young generation of women, to have a bright and promising opportunity in her ambition to be the best of the best women in her sport,” she added.
The rules permit a person who was born a man but now identifies as a woman to participate in women's events if their testosterone levels are within the acceptable range. “I personally think that the best solution would be to create a different division so that all can have a fair opportunity to showcase their passion and talent,” she added.
She also said, “Have any of the current surfers in the World Surf League been asked what their thoughts and opinions are on this new rule before it was passed or announced? Should there be a conversation?”
The WSL claims that the policy modification enables the sport to adhere to Olympic standards. “The WSL is working to balance equity and fairness, and we will continue to evaluate the policy in the months and years ahead as more research, information, and feedback are available,” it said in a statement on Monday.
“I knew the hammer of mean and cruel and harshness would be thrown down on me for not going with the flow, for having a different opinion, for being open and sharing my questions, thoughts, and my opinion on the new rules,” Hamilton shared in another Instagram video addressing the backlash she has received after her statement. However, she has the support of other women who shares what Hamilton feels.
