Caster Semenya isn't going to slow down for anyone. After news of a very controversial ruling pertaining to her was passed by the IAFF, social media has been rallying in support of the athlete.
Since then, Semenya has managed to successfully appeal against the Court of Arbitration for Sport's decision to allow the IAAF to go ahead with its amendments to its female eligibility regulations, which require athletes with a difference of sex development (DSD) to take medication to lower their high levels of naturally occurring testosterone. This would mean Caster won't be able to compete without taking genetic altering medication in order to compete.
The Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland has ordered international athletics body IAAF to suspend its female eligibility regulations with immediate effect, her lawyers shared in a statement. This means she will be able to compete in the 400m, 800m and 1,500m races while the appeal is pending.
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“This is an important case that will have fundamental implications for the human rights of female athletes.” the athlete’s Swiss lawyer, Dr Dorothee Schramm of Sidley Austin LLP, was quoted as saying in the release. However, the Swiss court will issue another ruling on the continued suspension of the regulations after the IAAF lodges its submissions.
While the guys in suits make up their mind, Caster is still going! Caster Semenya won the 2‚000m race in Paris last night in 5 minutes and 38.19 seconds, about 0.12 seconds short from breaking the current national record that hasn't been touched in over 28 years!
Semenya‚ who is refusing to take testosterone suppressants‚ had much to say to media asking about the ongoing case with the IAFF.
“I can run any distance I want‚,” the South African told reporters. “I don’t have time for nonsense‚ I don’t have time for messages for anyone. I said a long time ago that I’m going to focus on myself.... There will always be people who will provoke you‚ but I’m always going to stay positive. I’m not going to talk about the appeal‚ I have a lawyer‚ I have a team. I am an athlete the only thing I focus on is my performance.”
When asked if she would be defending her 800m title at the World Championships in September‚ Semenya replied: “Of course I’m an athlete‚ a world-class athlete. My goals are very clear."
