**Transgender Athletes Shine in UK Women’s Pool Championship**
In a notable women’s pool tournament in the United Kingdom, two transgender athletes, Harriet Haynes and Lucy Smith, showcased their skills by defeating their female competitors. The championship took place during the Ultimate Pool Women’s Pro Series Event 2 at the Robin Park Leisure Centre in Wigan. Both athletes advanced to the final after overcoming four female opponents each.
Lucy Smith demonstrated early dominance in the tournament, winning her first-round match against Jane Mitchell with a score of 7 frames to 3, followed by a decisive 7-1 victory over Vicki Lomax. Harriet Haynes, on the other hand, faced closely contested matches but managed to secure her place in the final. During the championship bout, Haynes initially led 6-3, but Smith fought back to narrow the gap. Ultimately, Haynes held on to claim victory.
According to Ultimate Pool Group statistics, Smith has an impressive record, winning 85 out of 113 matches and 62% of 848 frames since 2021. Haynes also boasts a strong performance history, with a .750 winning percentage across 241 matches and winning 61% of the frames prior to facing Smith. The two competitors previously met in the semifinals of the U.K. Mini Series pool championships in October, where Haynes emerged victorious, although she later lost the championship to a biological woman.
The English Pool Association and the World Eightball Pool Federation (WEPF) currently allow transgender athletes to compete without restrictions. However, the WEPF announced in August 2023 that it would revise its guidelines to permit only those “born female” to participate. This decision aimed to balance inclusivity with the integrity of competition. In October 2023, the WEPF reversed its stance, allowing transgender competitors who identify as female for at least four years and can provide proof of reduced testosterone levels.
As the conversation around inclusivity and competition continues, the implications for future tournaments remain to be seen.
**FAQ**
**Q: What are the current rules regarding transgender athletes in pool competitions?**
A: The English Pool Association and WEPF allow transgender athletes to compete, but recent changes require them to identify as female for a minimum of four years and provide proof of lowered testosterone levels.
