Transgender runner CeCe Telfer deemed ineligible to run in Olympic Trials

Transgender runner and NCAA champion CeCe Telfer will not be allowed to compete at the U.S. Olympic Trials in the 400-meter hurdles because she did not meet the World Athletics eligibility regulations. The news was first reported by the Associated Press (h/t ESPN).

Telfer was deemed ineligible to compete in the trials in Eugene, Ore., because she did not meet guidelines put in place in 2019 that pertain to transgender athletes in women's events. According to the report, Telfer was initially listed to compete in qualifying heats on Friday, but her name was noticeably missing from a list of competitors posted on Wednesday. 

Per the guidelines, runners in international women's events between 400 meters and one mile must have testosterone levels below 5 nonomoles per liter (nmol/L) for a span of 12 months. USA Track and Field was reportedly notified last week that Telfer had not met the guidelines.

USATF said in a statement it “strongly supports inclusivity and providing a clear path to participation in the sport for all, while also maintaining competitive fairness."

“If CeCe meets the conditions for transgender athlete participation in the future, we wholeheartedly back her participation in international events as a member of Team USATF,” the statement continued.

Telfer's manager, David McFarland, said in a separate statement Telfer respects USATF's decision and "has turned her focus towards the future and is continuing to train."

Telfer is the first openly transgender woman to win an NCAA title. She notably competed on the men's team at Division II school Franklin Pierce. She took time off and came back to compete for the women's team, winning the 400-meter NCAA title in 2019.