Cyclist Julie Cutts Peterson Challenges Transgender Participation in Women's Sports
Julie Cutts Peterson, a seasoned cyclist, expressed her discontent after finishing second to transgender athlete Kate “KJ” Phillips at the Lyons Masters National Championships in Wisconsin. Peterson declined to participate in the medal ceremony, citing her belief that competing against a trans woman undermines the integrity of women’s sports.
“At the finish line, I was upset. I said, ‘I did not want to race against a man,’” Peterson recounted during an interview. Her statement drew gasps from the audience, but she stood firm, asserting her right to free speech. “I was raised with certain beliefs about gender and biology,” she added, referencing her upbringing and education. “Most Americans would agree that men should not compete in women’s categories.”
Peterson's comments come amid growing concerns among female athletes regarding the inclusion of transgender competitors in women’s events. She was one of several veteran cyclists who voiced their frustrations with USA Cycling for allegedly failing to disclose Phillips' participation prior to the race.
During the race, Peterson noted that Phillips surged ahead unexpectedly during the final sprint. “I knew at that sprint that that was a man’s sprint,” she stated, drawing on her extensive experience racing against both genders.
Peterson further criticized the scientific basis of transgender ideology, stating, “No amount of makeup or money can change that Y-chromosome. That’s why we are taking a stand.” She also highlighted that Phillips’ name was not listed on the registration sheet, which she believes deprived competitors of crucial information before the race.
Co-anchor Sandra Smith shared insights from other athletes, including Debbie Milne, who claimed that Phillips’ registration was concealed from competitors. “Catherine Phillips, KJ’s name, was not on that list,” Milne asserted on a recent broadcast. She and Peterson suspect this omission was intentional, labeling it as “deception.” Milne revealed that Phillips had been registered since mid-June, long before the online registration closed, raising questions about transparency.
In response to inquiries about the situation, USA Cycling provided their transgender eligibility policy, which requires athletes to submit a declaration of their gender identity to compete in women’s events. Smith explained that this policy has raised concerns among female competitors like Peterson.
Peterson claimed to have evidence showing how the registration appeared prior to the race, arguing that USA Cycling had ample opportunity to disclose Phillips’ participation but chose not to. This incident reflects a broader trend that many female athletes are increasingly vocal about.
The ongoing debate surrounding transgender participation in sports continues to evoke strong opinions and calls for clarity in policies governing competition categories.
