South Africa sports minister “shocked” by media reports on Semenya’s gender tests
By APFriday, September 11, 2009
SAfrica minister angered by Semenya gender reports
PRETORIA, South Africa — South Africa’s sports minister says he is shocked and disgusted with media stories circulating around the world about the results of the gender tests on runner Caster Semenya.
Makhenkesi Stofile said Friday that he feels let down by The International Association of Athletics Federations and their handling of the matter.
International and local media are reporting that the recently crowned women’s world 800-meter champion has both male and female sexual organs. The IAAF said Friday it has received the results of the tests, but is still reviewing them.
Stofile, speaking at a press conference, said he has no doubts about Semenya’s gender.
“She’s a woman, she remains our heroine. We must protect her,” he said.
