Kiwi transgender weightlifter fails
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New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard crashed out of the Olympics today after making history as the first trans woman to compete in a solo event.
The 43-year-old, who transitioned in 2012, was competing in the 87kg+ category but failed to record a single valid 'snatch' lift in Tokyo.
Hubbard's appearance at the Games on Monday night was mired in controversy - not least because she was well-backed to batter most of her opposition and pick up a medal.
She took no questions after her exit but in brief comments thanked Japan for hosting the contest and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for its role in what she said was making sport accessible to all.
'I'm not entirely unaware of the controversy which surrounds my participation at these Games,' Hubbard said.
'And as such, I would particularly like to thank the IOC, for I think really affirming its commitment to the principles of Olympism and establishing that sport is something for all people, that it is inclusive and is accessible.'
Hubbard overbalanced on her opening weight of 120kg, taking the bar behind her shoulders. Her second effort of 125kg was ruled invalid on a majority decision by the referees, while the third attempt was almost a repeat of the first, ruling her out of medal contention.
Didn't have a "clean snatch."
Snort...
