One trans cyclist from the United Kingdom is sharing her utter heartbreak and devastation after she was reportedly banned from taking part in a competition.
According to local media reports, 21-year-old Emily Bridges who identifies as trans says she was heartbroken about the news.
At the last moment, the young cyclist revealed how she was informed about the incident that simply didn’t make any sense to her. She was just told that she failed to meet the eligibility criteria and for that reason, wouldn’t be able to continue.
The news was so depressing because the trans athlete says there was nothing more valuable than the chance to take part in a race like this.
“All I have ever really wanted is the opportunity to race again and I felt that I would achieve that soon but hearing news like this truly makes matters so much worse”- she continued.
With the British National Omnium Championships taking place tomorrow, the young cycling enthusiast yes it would have been a great honor for her and she hopes that one day, she would be able to race competitively again.
“I was told that I would no longer be deemed eligible. It was just gutwrenching for me as this is something that I’ve always dreamed of. I always hope that no one would ever be forced to choose between a sport they love and who they may be as an individual”- she continued.
Despite making such a major announcement in the public, she hopes that authorities can try and find some clarity in the situation and pave the way for other trans cyclists and athletes to continue because after all, they are humans too and deserve equal rights.
“I have been judged and there is nothing more to it. I really do hope that they will reconsider their decision for me” she concluded in the end.