A transgender cyclist has been barred from competing in a championship, claiming she has been ‘harassed and demonised’
Transgender cyclist Emily Bridges has slammed the media following the recent national championships in the United Kingdom.
Bridges says she was “harassed and demonised” by journalists and reporters after the world cycling’s governing body ruled she couldn’t compete.
Bridges was gearing up to race against fellow British Olympic stars, including superstar Laura Kenny.
On Wednesday, the governing body told her she was ineligible, just days before the event was due to commence that weekend.
In a statement, the 21-year-old says she has been in contact with British Cycling and the UCI for the past six months, ahead of what was supposed to be her first race in a women’s event.
“I have provided both British Cycling and the UCI with medical evidence that I meet the eligibility criteria for transgender female cyclists”.
Emily bridges statement
Officials made the final call after other cyclists threatened to boycott the race if Bridges competed.
Reports suggest Bridges has been undertaking hormone therapy since last year to reduce testosterone levels.
Bridges says she has had to deactivate her social media platforms to stop receiving abuse and dangerous threats following the disqualification.
