Nonbinary runner Nikki Hiltz advances to semifinal in 1500 meters

[Jessica_Rose]

Nonbinary runner Nikki Hiltz advances to semifinal in 1500 meters

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/nonbinary-runner-nikki-hiltz-advances-to-semifinal-in-1500-meters/ar-AA1ojQxY?ocid=windirect&cvid=21afb324171c4dc988866f62a8c820ba&ei=40

Story by Ina Fried (6 Aug 2024)

Team USA runner Nikki Hiltz finished third in their preliminary heat of the 1500-meters on Tuesday, advancing to Thursday's semifinals.

Hiltz, who was assigned female at birth and competes in the women's category, identifies as transgender and nonbinary and is among just a few such athletes competing at the Paris Games.

"I've been living the dream," Hiltz said, speaking to reporters shortly after Tuesday's heat. Hiltz said they have been trying to maximize the experience, from staying in the Olympic Village to taking part in opening ceremonies to hanging out with other queer athletes. "I want to take it all in."

"I would never want my identity to be weaponized against my community," they said. "I think trans women are women, and they deserve to compete wherever they're comfortable."

While there were two transgender women at the Tokyo Games — New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard and Team USA BMX alternate Chelsea Wolfe — there are none known to be competing in Paris. Several international federations, including track's governing body, have since adopted rules that make it all but impossible for transgender women to take part.

Hiltz would like to see that change. "I don't have all the answers on what that looks like, but I just know sports has provided me so much joy and life lessons along the way."

[Lilis]

Congratulations to Nikki Hiltz on advancing to the semifinals!