Caster Semenya, the South African distance runner was cleared for competition after it was determined that she was a woman.
Semenya, who won the 800 meter race at the world championships, had her gender questioned. The speculations on her gender, due to her deep voice, and improvement in speed and muscle, were questioned by authorities.
Public reports had suggested that Semenya was a hermaphrodite- someone who holds both male and female sex organs.
This would have provided her with a slight competitive advantage due to the increase in male testosterone.
South African leaders as well as Olympic sprinter Michael Johnson expressed criticism regarding the investigation, claiming that it was controversial and racist.
Semenya expressed her gratitude and excitement for being allowed to complete, claiming that
“I am thrilled to enter the global athletics arena once again and look forward to competing with all the disputes behind me”
