Noted

Caster Semenya - race, gender and being herself

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Episode notes

When Caster Semenya sprinted to victory in the 2009 World Championships, it should have marked her place as an athlete on the global stage. Instead, it opened the door to questions about whether she should be allowed to compete at all. 

Semenya was called for a gender verification test and it was leaked to the media that she was born with differences of sexual development (DSD), meaning she has elevated levels of testosterone. 

Since then, the two-time Olympic champion has been at the centre of a huge debate about gender in sport. This has played out entirely in the public eye, but often without Semenya’s voice at all. Until now. 

I’m Mary Mandefield, and in this episode of Noted we’ll hear Caster’s story in her own words.

As always, I want to hear from you on this. The WhatsApp number is +447723735241 if you want to tell me what you think, or share an experience you’ve had.

This is an original podcast production from The News Movement and Persephonica.

Exclusive statement from World Athletics:

‘World Athletics' primary focus is on protecting the integrity of the female category. If we don’t, then women and young girls will not choose sport. That is, and has always been, the Federation’s sole motivation. World Athletics has over a decade of research, directly from DSD athletes in our own sport, that show high testosterone levels do provide an unfair advantage in the female category.’

Fine more from Caster Semenya and full statement from World Athletics on YouTube.

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