Trans Athlete AB Hernandez’s Victory at California State Championships Sparks Debate

Protests Erupt at California High School Track Championships Over Transgender Athlete’s Participation

A California high school track and field championship event was marred by protests and a police arrest as transgender athlete AB Hernandez, a biological male, competed in girls’ events, sparking intense debate. The incident occurred during the California Interschool Federation (CIF) state finals in Clovis, where Hernandez, 17, qualified for three events: long jump, high jump, and triple jump.

Protest and Arrest
During the meet, a clash erupted when a protester, reportedly an LGBTQ activist, was arrested for allegedly smashing a car window with a flagpole. Clovis Police confirmed the arrest, citing charges of assault with a weapon and obstructing an officer. The altercation occurred near the event venue, with authorities emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance on violence. Meanwhile, a plane circled overhead, towing a banner reading, “CIF: NO BOYS IN GIRLS’ SPORTS,” organized by advocacy groups ICONS and WAR, which oppose transgender athletes in women’s sports.

A plane flies a protest banner over the CIF championships in Clovis.

Hernandez’s Performance
Hernandez, who previously qualified at the Southern Section Masters meet, dominated the preliminaries, securing spots in all three finals. Her triple jump of 41 feet outpaced competitors by nearly 10 inches, while her long jump neared 20 feet. In the high jump, she cleared 5 feet 5 inches with ease. Her performances positioned her as a favorite for podium finishes, intensifying the controversy.

Hernandez competes in the high jump at the CIF finals.

Political and Public Reactions
Former President Donald Trump criticized California’s policies, threatening to withhold federal funding unless the state bars transgender athletes from girls’ sports. He accused Governor Gavin Newsom of undermining women’s rights, calling the situation “totally demeaning.” Advocacy groups echoed these sentiments, with ICONS co-founder Kim Jones stating, “Not one boy should be in girls’ sports.”

Mother’s Defense
Hernandez’s mother, Nereyda, defended her daughter, condemning Trump’s remarks as a “campaign of cruelty.” In a social media post, she emphasized her daughter’s right to compete and urged compassion: “Hate has no place in leadership. We need a president who protects all children.”

Protestors gather outside the event, holding signs opposing transgender athletes in girls’ sports.

Broader Implications
The debate highlights tensions between inclusion and fairness in sports. While Hernandez’s supporters argue for transgender rights, opponents stress the physical advantages of biological males in female competitions. The CIF, adhering to state law, allows transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity, a policy under increasing scrutiny.

As the finals proceed, the controversy underscores a national conversation about gender, equity, and the future of youth sports.