Controversy at High School Cross-Country Meet

A number of high school girls at a Washington cross-country meet stepped off the track in protest. On October 13, during a meet at Camas High School against Battle Ground, a protest arose following a decision permitting a male athlete to switch from the boys’ team to the girls’ varsity roster midseason.

According to reports, on September 5, the athlete finished in 76th place in an Oregon boys’ junior varsity race. Ten days later, the same athlete competed in the girls’ division.

“We told her to do what they feel is right,” said Kevin Burns regarding his daughter and her teammates deciding to protest. “They decided to make a difference.”

Previously, girls had protested by walking off the course, and before this, many key team members had already quit. School officials cited state regulations in response to questions about the athlete’s eligibility, explaining that Washington law requires schools to respect athletes’ gender identity.

Holly’s father expressed frustration with the school’s stance, pointing out that a letter from the school stated it prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and expression, creating a deadlock for the families.

With limited support from athletic institutions, high school girls had to take a stand. These issues put considerable emotional strain on young competitors who simply wanted to compete and enjoy their sport without political controversy.

Both at the meet and on the sidelines, confrontation occurred when parents arrived with signs to support the runners. Security attempted to remove them, but many parents remained, expressing this as a start of more significant discussions.

“This is something that people across the political spectrum agree on,” stated Kevin Burns. “It’s important for officials to address and support the rights of female athletes.”