California track athlete wins three events at section finals

A girls track and field meet in California became the subject of national attention after a trans athlete won first place in three jumping events at the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section finals on Saturday. The athlete, identified as AB Hernandez, took first in the high jump, long jump and triple jump.

Under a CIF pilot program enacted last May, any female athlete who finished behind the trans competitor received one higher placement, resulting in shared podium spots.

Photos and video of the three podium ceremonies circulated on social media. One image showed Hernandez and the top female finisher sharing the top spot on the podium. The CIF announced in a May 16 letter to parents that the pilot program would continue for the remainder of the state postseason.

The program also advances any female athlete who finished one spot out of qualifying in events that include a trans competitor.

The CIF stated that it values all student-athletes and will uphold its mission to provide students the opportunity to belong, connect and compete while following California law and education code. A source within Gov. Gavin Newsom's office said the governor rejects attempts to weaponize the debate and stands with all kids.

California is one of 22 states that permit students to participate in sex-segregated school sports consistent with their gender identity. Hernandez and other section winners advance to CIF preliminaries next Saturday, with the two-day state finals scheduled to begin May 29 in Clovis, California.