World Athletics gene test introduced for female category
Summary
Track and field's governing body has set a deadline of September 1 for female athletes to complete a gene test to compete in the world championships. These rules apply to athletes with "differences in sex development" (DSD) and aim to confirm female eligibility for elite events. The World Athletics organization will cover part of the testing cost and expects results within two weeks.Key Facts
- Athletes must complete a gene test by September 1 to enter the world championships starting September 13 in Tokyo.
- The rules require a once-in-a-lifetime chromosome test through cheek swabs or dry blood-spot tests.
- These rules aim to ensure only biologically female athletes compete in the female category.
- World Athletics will pay up to $100 for each test, managed by national groups.
- The test results are expected within two weeks and are considered highly accurate.
- Rules have been contentious since Caster Semenya's first world title in 2009.
- Semenya recently won a legal ruling about not getting a fair hearing, but it did not change the sport's rules.
- Athletes with DSD may continue competing if they take medication to lower natural testosterone levels.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
