On this extra-strength episode, our hosts, Flint, Alyx and Ashleigh try something a little different. We have many (but not all) of our usual format points but our entire episode this week is dedicated to a single premise: sports science is complicated and bans on trans participation in sport make no sense.
NOTE: You may not care for sport, you may not be interested in it. That is fine and valid, but we would implore you to nevertheless give this episode a try and particularly our interview with Sheree Bekker & Stephen Mumford, two scientists who have some fascinating insights about the social construction of sport and how patriarchy still rules the roost in places like the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and other sports organisations. We take a look at:
- The IOC is to introduce SRY gene sex testing for all entrants competing in the female categories for all events.
- Parkrun finds itself caught in the Eye of Sauron. Sorry, I meant legal threats from the Alliance Defending Freedom.
- Our interview mentioned above for the Meat
- USA Powerlifting finds itself in Loser’s Corner.
- Some tips for fighting back in Action Alley
- And finally our usual palate cleanser of Trans Joy.
References
IOC
IOC Executive Board Press Conference – 26.03.2026 – YouTube
Olympics: Sex Testing Harms All Women and Girls
Parkrun
ADF International press release (archive copy)
The Meat
Testosterone: An Unauthorised Biography
Court Case – The Right To Appeal – ECtHR/Equality Act : r/transgenderUK
1 IN THE CANTERBURY COUNTY COURT Claim no. K01CT207 BETWEEN HARRIET HAYNES Claimant -and- (1) PAUL THOMSON (2) ANNA GOODWIN ON B
Transgender darts player ‘not done fighting’ ban from women’s events – ESPN
Statement: DRA Eligibility Policy Update
Loser’s Corner
USA Powerlifting, trans athlete settle discrimination case | Courthouse News Service
Three Things to Know About the Landmark Cooper v. USA Powerlifting Win – Gender Justice
Transgender Participation Policy – USA Powerlifting
Action Alley
In Southampton and Nottingham, there is a protest to mark IDAHOBIT, or International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia.
Southampton: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXj_AuJDbZY/?img_index=1
Nottingham: ttps://www.instagram.com/p/DXy6ryyjCFT/?igsh=MTRqaDVkdmFxYWNpMw==
A letter writing campaign about fighting the ADF’s campaign against parkrun:
A letter campaign to national collegiate rugby:
Open letter to scottish FA for their ban on players:
