New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard made history on Monday night – becoming the first openly transgender woman to compete in the Olympics.
In a rare interview with international media after her appearance in the over-87kg final,
which had been the subject of controversy and scrutiny, Hubbard, said:
“We are human and, as such, I hope that just being here is enough.”
“I don’t think it should be historic.
I think as we move into a new and more understanding world, people are starting to realise that people like me are just people.”
Hubbard, 43, failed with attempts to lift 120kg and two at 125kg in the snatch as she made a quick exit from the competition.
China’s Li lifted an Olympic record of 320kg to take the gold medal, with Britain’s Emily Campbell claiming silver and American Sarah Robles winning bronze.
After the event, Hubbard said she planned to retire from the sport, adding that she had never sought publicity,
or regards herself a role model or trailblazer, but just wants to be treated like any other athlete on sport’s biggest stage.
