CeCe Telfer, the first transgender woman to win an NCAA title, unable to compete at Olympic trials due to eligibility requirements

Despite entering the U.S. Olympic trials, CeCe Telfer — the first transgender woman to win an NCAA title —will not be allowed to compete in the competition due to not meeting World Athletics eligibility regulations.

“Following notification from World Athletics on June 17 that the conditions had not yet been met, USATF provided CeCe with the eligibility requirements and, along with World Athletics, the opportunity to demonstrate her eligibility so that she could compete at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials,” a statement from USA Track and Field read. “According to subsequent notification to CeCe from World Athletics on June 22, she has not been able to demonstrate her eligibility.”

CeCe Telfer will not be allowed to compete in the women’s 400m hurdles at US Olympic trials because Telfer has not met the conditions World Athletics established in its eligibility regulations for certain women’s events.

In 2019, the World Athletics released new rules for transgender women athletes that call for those runners in the 400-meter and 1-mile events to have testosterone levels below 5 nonomoles per liter for at least a year, according to Yahoo Sports.

While in college, Telfer competed on Franklin Pierce’s Division II men’s team before taking time off and competing for the women’s team, winning the 400-meter NCAA title three years ago.

“CeCe has turned her focus towards the future and is continuing to train. She will compete on the national — and world — stage again soon,” said Telfer’s manager David McFarland.

USA Track and Field also voiced their support for Telfer joining their team once she meets the requirements.

“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.”