Transgender athlete AB Hernandez excelled in three girls’ jumping events, securing first place in two, during the preliminary round of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) state track and field championships. Hernandez, a center of national controversy for competing in girls’ events since last May, will aim for the state title in girls’ long jump, high jump, and triple jump.
Friday’s competitions unfolded amid a “Save Girls Sports” rally nearby. California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton joined local activists and an Olympic gold medalist to advocate for protecting girls’ sports. Earlier, Hernandez appeared in a video supporting Democrat gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer.
Competing for Jurupa Valley High School, Hernandez topped the girls’ long jump with a leap of 20-05.50, surpassing Ellie McCuskey-Hay of St. Ignatius, who recorded 19-11.25 for second place. As the sun set over Veteran’s Memorial Stadium in Clovis, Hernandez tackled both the high jump and triple jump, which did not adhere to their scheduled times. Hernandez advanced to the finals in both events.
In the triple jump, Hernandez dominated with a distance of 41′ 8.5, while Zylah Coleman of St. Ignatius placed second with 40′ 3.25. However, Hernandez only managed a tie for fourth in the high jump, marking the first time in the postseason the athlete did not win in any event.
The day began with Hernandez appearing in a video alongside Steyer. During the video, Hernandez discussed challenges faced, highlighting safety concerns. Steyer expressed agreement, emphasizing the role of the governor in ensuring safety and protection.
A “Save Girls Sports” rally, led by Hilton, took place prior to Friday’s contests. Former NCAA women’s soccer player Sophia Lorey organized the event. Hilton, California state superintendent candidate Sonja Shaw, and Olympic gold medalist Stephanie Brown spoke out.
“The message to female athletes is clear,” Lorey stated, “your opportunities come second to males.”
Shaw urged action from Californians, highlighting the importance of standing up for the issue. Hilton criticized Gov. Gavin Newsom, accusing him of inaction on fairness in sports due to political pressures.
The CIF reinstated a pilot program to accommodate female athletes competing against Hernandez, elevating their placement by one spot, resulting in shared podium positions at the state tournament. This policy will persist into the upcoming state finals.
Saturday’s finals will present an opportunity for Hernandez to reclaim the top podium spot in long jump, high jump, and triple jump alongside the second-place female finisher. The CIF event remains entwined with political debate over fairness in sports.