Transgender Athlete’s Track Victories Spark Debate in High School Competition
A high school in the United States is at the center of debate after a transgender student participated in a women’s track and field event. The athlete’s dominant performance in the 400m race has ignited fresh discussion surrounding transgender athletes in women’s sports. Ada Gallagher, a student at McDaniel High School, formerly known as Aayden, successfully defended her titles in the girls’ 200m and 400m races at the Portland Interscholastic League meet. However, these wins have generated online controversy.
Dominant Wins at Portland Interscholastic League Meet
Gallagher also secured victories in both events in 2024, which similarly provoked widespread discussion. This Wednesday, she established a new 200m record, completing the race in 25.76 seconds, surpassing the second-place finisher by more than 1.5 seconds. She continued her strong performance in the 400m event.
Record-Setting Performance and Social Media Reaction
Gallagher easily outpaced her competitors in the 400m, achieving a season-best time of 57.62 seconds. The 16-year-old athlete finished nearly ten seconds ahead of Kinnaly Souphanthong, who placed second, in a commanding display.
Video clips of Gallagher’s victories quickly circulated on social media platforms. While some viewers offered congratulations, many questioned the fairness of a transgender athlete competing in women’s events.
Riley Gaines and Others Voice Concerns
Former swimmer Riley Gaines posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Another day, another male athlete dominating girls’ sports. Aayden “Ada” Gallagher set a season record and beat the fastest girl by over 7 seconds… does he have no shame? Do his PARENTS have no shame?”
Numerous other users also responded critically. One post suggested, “At this point, the girls need to take a stand. If the school administration and government won’t protect women, women must refuse to participate.” Another comment questioned, “Are the parents of these girls afraid to speak out, or do they accept males competing against their daughters and winning?”
Athlete’s Perspective and School Policy
Gallagher has experienced considerable success in track and field alongside her academic pursuits. Her recruitment profile indicates an awareness of the attention surrounding her victories. She stated, “Hello, my name is Ada Gallagher, I love track. I’m able to continue running when thousands of people wish for me to stop and doubt my integrity. And although I enjoy winning, I love getting to participate in the sport as a whole.”
The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA), the governing body of the Portland Interscholastic League, has a policy that permits transgender student participation. Their policy aims to allow ‘students to participate in the athletic or activity program consistent with their asserted gender identity, while ensuring a fair and safe environment for all participants.’