Caster Semenya Withdraws From Race

September 11. 2009

Video: Semenya media reports slammed - ITN NEWS

Due to speculation about her gender, gold medalist, Caster Semenya, has withdrawn from competition, over a leaked report in the Sydney Morning Herald, alleging she is a hermaphrodite.

The 18-year-old female runner has been subjected to a maelstrom of criticism, regarding her athletic prowess, which many are attributing to male and female genetic factors.

It's sad that she has withdrawn, as she is a great athlete, but there is a legal angle in this controversy, which could create court case, after court case and a mountain of legal fees. This is undoubtedly a concern.

Cheer up, girl! You are still number one!

Caster Semenya Withdraws From Competition Amid Speculation

Published: September 11, 2009 - JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Caster Semenya, the world champion runner from South Africa, has withdrawn from a weekend race amid speculation about her sex.

The South African Press Association quoted her coach, Michael Seme, as saying Semenya would not take part in the 4,000 meters at the national cross country championships in Pretoria on Saturday. He had said earlier this week that Semenya would run.

Asked Friday why Semenya withdrew, Seme said she was “not feeling well.”...

http://www.nytimes.com