Law enforcement is scrutinizing the dispute at USA Cycling following the dispersal of videos detailing the exchange between event organizers and an activist, which has gained widespread attention online
In an unexpected turn of events, Beth Bourne, a women's sports activist from California, found herself at the centre of a heated incident at the USA Cycling's Oakland Grand Prix. The incident, which has since gone viral, saw Bourne being berated by event organizers.
According to reports, Bourne was asking organizers if the women's competitors had been tested for birth sex. This inquiry was met with hostility, as one organizer was seen putting a pizza box in front of Bourne's camera and throwing her protest signs in the garbage.
The organizer allegedly told Bourne, "Your God isn't going to protect you," and "You're just a hateful, awful person." Bourne was heard saying, "Give me my phone!" during the incident, as she was physically obstructed and shouted at by the organizers.
The footage of this interaction has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for justice for Bourne. The incident is currently being investigated by the Livermore Police Department, who have also launched an investigation into comments made by former Team USA athlete, Chelsea Wolfe, at the same event.
Wolfe, who is under investigation for her comments towards protesters, has shared multiple posts celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk on her social media. She previously stated that she wanted to win an Olympic medal to "burn the American flag."
USA Cycling has provided a statement distancing themselves from Wolfe's views and stating that she is no longer a member of the organisation. The organisation responsible for the event in Livermore, California, where the incident occurred, is the USA Wrestling Association.
Bourne described the incident as emotional, unexpected, and terrifying. She has since spoken out about the importance of standing up for what is right and the need for change in the sports industry.
Jackson Thompson, a sports writer for Digital, has covered some of the most significant sporting events, including the Super Bowl, NBA Finals, and has interviewed iconic figures such as Usain Bolt, Rob Gronkowski, Jerry Rice, Troy Aikman, Mike Trout, David Ortiz, and Roger Clemens. Thompson's coverage of this incident sheds light on the ongoing issues faced by women in sports and the need for a more inclusive and respectful environment.
As the investigation continues, the sports community and the public alike are waiting for justice for Bourne and a commitment to addressing the systemic issues that allow such incidents to occur.
