NZ Weightlifter to Become First Transgender Athlete to Compete at Olympics

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - Weightlifter Laurel Hubbard will become the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympics after being selected by New Zealand for the women's event at the Tokyo Games, a decision set to test the ideal of fair competition in sport.

Hubbard will compete in the super-heavyweight 87-kg category, her selection made possible by updated qualifying requirements. The 43-year-old had competed in men's weightlifting competitions before transitioning in 2013. "I am grateful and humbled by the kindness and support that has been given to me by so many New Zealanders,” Hubbard said in a statement issued by the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) on Monday.