Some controversy surrounded the North Carolina Belgian Waffle Bike Race on Saturday, when a trans woman emerged victorious in the women’s division of the 131-mile race through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Austin Killips, who rides with Nice Bikes, finished the tough multi-surface race in eight hours, 28 minutes, and seven seconds to win the third annual race, according to Cycling News.
In second place was Paige Onweller, who finished four minutes behind Killips.
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Cyclists compete in the 75th Criterium du Dauphine, from Le Pont-de-Claix to La Bastille, on June 11, 2023, in Grenoble Alpes Métropole, France. (Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)
Onweller discussed the controversy surrounding Killips crossing the finish line first with a positive message for cycling.
«For those who follow women’s road cycling, you are aware of the UCI rule that this is currently allowed. Rather than share my personal views on the UCI rule, I think it is more important to recognize that all athletes, regardless of No matter how they identify, they must have a space to compete and run.
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«In addition, under every helmet is a face and a person who deserves respect, dignity and a safe space to ride a bike,» Onweller said in a press release, via Cycling News.
«Going forward, I feel a separate category is appropriate, but event promoters are also learning what is best to preserve women’s cycling while also creating an inclusive space for everyone to ride. These things take time and grace. to resolve.
Cyclists at the 75th Criterium du Dauphine on June 11, 2023, in Grenoble Alpes Métropole, France. (Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)
«I plan to continue to support and attend BWR events in the future as I am confident they will navigate this with respect for all riders in the future. I want to thank all event promoters for the work they put in and the difficulty they face in these decisions.»
It has become a pressing issue in many sports on many different levels, but Onweller said he is keeping his personal opinions on the subject to himself and maintains a positive outlook on his respective athletic domain.
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The Porte-de-Savoie to Col de la Croix de Fer stage of the 75th Criterium du Dauphine on June 10, 2023, in Col de la Croix de Fer, France. (Dario Belingheri/Getty Images)
Some, like former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines and broadcaster Sage Steele, are making their views known because they believe women in sports should be protected.