Caster Semenya has been barred from a South African meet due to unreleased gender verification tests. Despite this setback, Semenya announced she will return to competition
Caster Semenya says she will return to competitive racing this season, releasing a statement on the same day that she was denied a chance to run at a meet in South Africa because the IAAF has yet to release its findings from her gender verification tests.
The 19-year-old Semenya, who has not raced or spoken publicly since she won the women's 800-meter race at the world championships in Berlin in August, said Tuesday that she has not done anything wrong and should be allowed to race.
"I hereby publicly announce my return to athletics competitions," Semenya said.
The IAAF is still reviewing the test results to determine the South African runner's eligibility. The organization has refused to confirm or deny Australian media reports that the tests indicate Semenya has both male and female sex organs.
Although there is no ban or suspension preventing Semenya from competing, it is thought that she had agreed not to race until the IAAF releases its findings.
"I am of the firm view that there is no impediment to me competing in athletics competitions," Semenya said. "I will however continue to assist the IAAF with whatsoever they may require for their own processes and in this regard I have instructed my legal and medical team to work closely with, and continue negotiation with them for these purposes."
Earlier Tuesday, Semenya was denied a spot to race at a meet in Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, despite pleas from her coach and lawyer to let her compete.
Although she was in Stellenbosch, she refused to talk about her situation.
"Why would I want to talk to media," Semenya told The Associated Press. "I don't want to talk to you."
Get it from the SOURCE: USA TODAY