The future of trans woman Leah Thomas in swimming looks uncertain as the American Swimming Association changes the eligibility standards for bi-sexual athletes.
The new policy posted on the American Swimming Association's website comes as the 22-year-old transgender swimmer comes under fire from opponents who claim that, biologically, she has a big advantage over her fellow competitors since she was born male.
"Sport is an important vehicle for physical and mental health and, for this reason, the American Swimming Association remains steadfast in its commitment to both greater athlete participation and gender equality," the statement reads.
"In order to balance these two priorities, specific guidelines are established for both elite athletes and those who participate in smaller divisions. The policy for the participation of transgender athletes in the US is based on scientific and medical evidence-based methods so as to provide a level playing field for transgender female athletes and to mitigate the advantages associated with male puberty and physiology," it adds."
The American Swimming Association also explains that, a team of three independent medical experts will implement the new policy that will be effective immediately for athletes.
As the BBC reports, the three-member panel will rule on whether a trans female athlete's "prior physical development as a male" gives her an unfair advantage.
Trans female athletes will also undergo testosterone tests for 36 months before competitions so that the panel can decide if they have an unfair advantage over their female teammates. Specifically, it is stated that for that entire time, the transgender athlete must have a testosterone level of less than or equal to 5 nanomoles per liter; if she has more, she will only be able to compete in the men's division.
22-year-old transgender swimmer Leah Thomas is at the center of controversy, with the accusation that she has the strength advantage of a man, having been born a man.
The young athlete's presence in university (NCAA) championship pools has left a mark.
Having finished 38 seconds ahead of 2nd in 1.500m freestyle and another 14 seconds in the 400m, many are calling it unfair, arguing that Leah, unlike her fellow swimmers, is stronger.
But she is indifferent to the "bad language".
"Swimming has always been a big part of my life."
"Swimming has always been a big part of my life. Before transitioning to my new body, there was a lot of uncertainty about my future in swimming and whether I would be able to continue. I'm glad to be given this opportunity and I think it's only fair," she says.
Leah began swimming as an athlete on the men's swim team at Pen State for three years before undergoing gender reassignment surgery.
Source: protothema.gr
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