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California Track Meet Fuels National Debate Over Transgender Athlete Inclusion

Reese Hogan's symbolic podium gesture after finishing second to trans athlete AB Hernandez adds momentum to policy and political scrutiny.

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simple metal pedestal on green grass of stadium closeup

Overview

  • Reese Hogan, a 16-year-old athlete, set a personal and school record in the triple jump but finished second to transgender competitor AB Hernandez at the CIF Southern Section Finals.
  • Hogan briefly stood on the first-place podium after the awards ceremony, a gesture that drew widespread attention and praise from conservative activist Riley Gaines.
  • Hernandez, a male-born transgender athlete, won both the long jump and triple jump events and currently holds the top marks in the state for these events.
  • The CIF is now under a Title IX review following allegations that officials forced female athletes to remove 'Protect Girls Sports' shirts during the prelims under threat of disqualification.
  • The incident coincides with a failed Senate vote on a nationwide transgender sports ban, leaving state and school-level policies under intense scrutiny.