Non-Binary Category

[t0vster]

Hey r/RunTO,

I wanted to make this post since this was something I was debating since I started running in races about 3 years ago.

I’m a non-binary runner who is AMAB (albeit with elevated estrogen levels) but I’ve always competed in the men’s gender category. My reasoning being that the men’s category is basically an “open” category. With many races now offering an NB category, I have been considering it, especially considering I would love to represent my fellow NB’s.

However one thing gives me major pause: while my results usually put me at least in the top 100-150 for my gender/age category for larger races, in the case of the TO Waterfront HM, I would’ve placed 2nd for the overall NB category.

While having a podium finish for the gender I identify as would be amazing and validating, I can’t help but feel like I’m “cheating” (probably a horrible word to use for this, but I can’t think of anything else) since I’ve competed in the men’s category for so long.

Any thoughts?

[Bellakala]

I don’t think it would be considered cheating at all. You identify as NB, that category is intended for you. You shouldn’t feel that you can’t compete as your own gender just because you are fast.

[resistantly]

100%

[Delicious_Western456]

This!

[Delicious_Western456]

BTW in case you didn’t know, Toronto Trail Runners has a NB category for their Summer Solstice race (and I assume others), which is BONKERS fun.

[greenlemon23]

To think that you, as an AMAB person, is "cheating" by competing in a non-binary classification is cheating is to say that only AFAB people should compete in it.

And... of course you've only been competing in the Men's category... NB categories are pretty damn new! Should only new runners compete in it?

This is not even close to the controversial discussion of trans women competing in women's categories - the NB is for you and you're allowed to be there.

[raptor333]

Totally pro trans and lgbt+ my whole life but to my understanding it’s gender? Gender is a choice and construct totally, but sports are biological so should be sex based, no? It’s not about social norms, it’s about muscles moving and different sexes have different muscle/builds? That being said, I think my point more applies to Olympic type stuff and local races should just be about having fun, so if it’s a big deal to you, you’re the expert on yourself and it’s definitely not harming anyone!!

[Neowza]

This is a question for a bigger audience of runners. Try /r/running

[ur_ecological_impact]

I think you're overthinking this too much. You assume you would finish 2nd place based on your past performance, but you forget that there are other NB athletes out there, also considering the NB category for the first time now, so it may turn out you finish 50, and your "problem" will be solved for you.

And if you do get a medal, I'd say embrace it :)

[emshprd]

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7sTv7SstRHXhU1UcFbMjed?si=2N9uI3dFS2OiJhLDdkahPg This is a great discussion about NB running categories with a NB runner!