parkrun BURIES its Head in the SAND | Controversy NOT OVER

[@vogelsrock]

Born as a bullied girl. I hated running at high school. Always the last one picked. Started running around 35, still not the quickest and never expected to be. I didn't want to parkrun because I was afraid people would have to wait (just like in gym class). Just before COVID pandemic parkrun started in my country, I joined, never fast. But at age 48 on the top of a list. Fastest you ask?! No still not, but first place in the most parkruns in the country. Happy as can be, for the first time top of a sports-table. And now that table is gone. 😢 I don't care if people are faster, it has been that way since day 1. I don't care what gender people are, don't care what age people are Do care if people are doping. But all those things can't be checked anyway. I found inspiration in seeing people lose weight, in getting passed by a 6 and 79 year old. That the 79 year old passed me gave me inspiration for the future. That the lists are gone makes me sad and a bit less inspired.

[@FilmMyRun]

Beautiful comment. Thank you so much.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

Doping often involves the use of testosterone. Allowing people who've been through male puberty to compete in the female category is identical to doping.

[@vogelsrock]

​@@tattiesconebuttie Doping to me is taking drugs with the sole purpose of enhancing performance to win races. Nobody is born 100% male or 100% female. It is not that easy. We are too slowly learning that a human can be a bit of both. If a human decides they feel another gender is more fitting than the one they got labelled with at birth. They are free to do so, especially at parkrun. Life is a struggle and I hope those keep coming to parkrun. It's not the Olympics it's parkrun, where the coffee after the run is more important than the one before.

[@nigelb1851]

Park Run has been a huge global success, the phrase "if it aint broke, don't fix it" springs to mind. I'm sure this won't break it, but it wasn't necessary either.

[@MajaNoer]

According to Cole Running's video, there was a threat from the athletics org of the uk (sorry, don't remember the name of the org) of defunding parkrun due to refusing to police the gender issue. That seems likely to be the reason for the sudden change.

[@ChairmanAntelope]

@@MajaNoerthis is false - there was a report from a right wing think tank (Policy Exchange) “recommending” Sport England defund them. Policy Exchange don’t actually have anything to do with the government though, so there was no current danger of them losing any funding besides a random company saying that they should be defunded.

[@nigelb1851]

@@MajaNoer could be, If so, Park Run should be transparent about the real reasons for doing this.

[@matthewmanners6004]

And just seeing this followup you've done as well. How about this: 1. People who register for Parkrun AGREE to abide by an ethical code to register truthfully when filling in the form. 2. The form contains the category of SEX: Male, Female, PREFER NOT TO SAY. 3. If Prefer Not To Say is selected, specifically ask "Would you like to use a Pseudonym as your name?" 4. If registrants fail to abide by the ethical code and an M to F Trans runner achieves a notable record and is identified as in the wrong category, then Parkrun reserves the right to investigate the ethical code breach - i.e. failing to register truthfully - and to call in the AIU to investigate. These measures protect all parties, male, female and other. And it means the male records, and the female records can stand, unless challenged according to the code.

[@SoorAurora]

Exactly. It's a matter of integrity. We used to assume trust for "fun" things like parkrun. Why does it seem to be implied that people with identity issues have an integrity problem? They know their own sex.

[@FilmMyRun]

Yes this seems a fair idea. It’s not perfect but no solution would be I don’t think. Thanks for you comment and thoughts.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

​@@SoorAuroraunfortunately a popular strand of contemporary gender ideology claims that people don't only change gender, but they literally change sex by medicalising or even just declaration. This is causing huge problems in healthcare, as some trans identified people, especially the high numbers of autistic youth being medicalised, don't realise they are still at risk of sex specific conditions (pregnancy, prostate, etc). In many cases in Parkrun it will be an integrity issue, but in some it may be genuine confusion due to the intentional confusion sown by the ideology. Such a mess.

[@matthewmanners6004]

@@tattiesconebuttie - Yes it is a matter of integrity. The records of the majority of the [Parkrun running] population who are in clearly defined categories should not be forsaken for the sake of a few saboteurs, whether intentional or not. It baffles me as to how a free event laid on weekly by dozens of volunteers at each location can be compromised like this. This comes down to weak leadership, not being able to rebut this nonsense.

[@barriehobbs4533]

The question is how would people feel if they knew the results they enjoyed mulling over were skewed by athletes running in the wrong age category? 52 year olds entering as 62 year olds say? The reality is there are women out there who are unhappy because they believe the results they look at are skewed by some people running in what they see as the wrong gender category. I get that, even though the only thing I'm interested in is my time and an idea of how difficult the course was compared to others. The IAF has policies on gender inclusion which flow down the line to national and regional bodies and if Parkrun falls within the ambit of their organisation then Parkrun should simply apply those criteria. I'm guessing however that Parkrun stands independently apart from those bodies and as an independent operator "outside the tent" cannot simply defend itself against claims of unfair exclusion by transgender runners by relying on IAF or national guidelines. That doesn't mean such reliance would fail in court. However, Parkrun are in a difficult place. In France they spent ages arguing that it isn't a race or an athletic event in order to avoid compliance with the French Athletics Associations rules on races. They can't have it both ways and now argue that it is an athletic event in order to shelter behind IAF gender rules. In any event I can certainly understand Parkrun's reluctance to spend the time and money of going down the legal route. It should also be remembered that whereas excluding transgender women from the women's category left them open to a claim from transgender women, doing nothing left them equally open to a claim by biological women who want the transgenders excluded. So simply doing nothing was probably not an option. What we might need here is some dialogue between Parkrun and the national federations which brings Parkrun within the fold so that they can rely on the IAF guidelines on gender whilst not being required to follow the entire rule book the requirements of which would destroy what makes Parkrun possible in the first place.

[@onamonday1]

Nobody wants to exclude anybody from parkrun. The female category has to be protected. Anyone not born a woman can run in the open category

[@quercus21]

@@onamonday1This exactly. Why so complicated?

[@christopherrudge]

One of few people I have seen to understand the clear legal implications Barrie. In Australia, our Sex Discrimination Act would make it easy to sue parkrun which, as you say, could not rely on World Athletics or jurisdictional competition rules as an exception to the anti-discrimination law. They had to make it less like a competition to hedge against clear liabilities here. The legal problems were inadvertently prompted by the conservative British think tank Policy Exchange, which said it recommend the UK government stop funding parkrun unless it adopted the World Athletics gender binary rules and remove all trans athletes registrations and records in 12 months. Faced with this threat of a loss of funding (parkrun is a charity) or the alternative -- which would make it officially a competition, applying the World Athletics rules -- parkrun has clearly opted to make it pellucidly clear that the activity is not a competition, thereby inoculating itself against claims that it should have its funding cut because it is an ersatz competition that is alleged to permit unfairness to ciswomen athletes subject to losing out to transathlete records.

[@peterbrown4706]

Has parkrun HQ surveyed their participants on any of the recent decisions? I always thought that the events were organised for their participants so they should be consulted properly before making any fundamental changes.

[@FilmMyRun]

Apparently there have been focus groups. No one asked me though!! Haha thanks so much for your thoughts.

[@elninochin0]

“It’s a run, not a race”…. But it has a start, finish, timed, a finish position… and they shout 1,2,3…. GO!

[@FilmMyRun]

I know!! Couldn’t be more of a race of it tried!

[@adrianparker-e9f]

In that latest announcement by parkrun I found the words about ' continuing to identify and remove barriers to participation' intriguing ! It sounds, to me, like last weeks announcement about course records was just a 'reconnaissance'. They can find out who and how many are with them, and give them the green light to continue. They do seem to have created a 'polarising' effect, the people going along with them being unlikely to change sides.

[@qigong1001]

I'm not white, I'm a minority and not given any priveleges as a youth or an adult. All hard work. Please stop thinking of yourself as "white heterosexual privileged" as I know plenty of my people who are successful and privileged because of brains/hard work. We are capable of being presidents of powerful countries, corporations, etc, even when the chips are down. When certain groups label us as incapable downtrodden individuals, it's demeaning and racist. They assume we are all dense and they are using us to advance themselves. We are capable people, and the main issue keeping us down is the constant social and media repetition that we are "victims" that can't pull ahead because of some white ghost that doesn't exist. You are my brother, we are all the same and your opinion is just as valid as any others. Stay strong.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you so much. What a great comment and I really appreciate your perspective

[@benpollock104]

I think the ability for parkrun runners to set their profile to private would be incredibly useful for some. Not something I would probably use myself but something that could be valuable to some. It won't fix all the issues here (not sure what will) but it could protect those that are just there for fun but want to maintain privacy

[@FilmMyRun]

That’s actually a pretty good idea

[@onamonday1]

They already have prefer not to say !

[@benpollock104]

@onamonday1 yes I think that is a helpful option for gender, but I was suggesting some might just prefer to have all their details hidden. All runs/races could let those who want to have their results and privacy have it. In respecting privacy it could become easier to let those who want to compete with the fastest finisher records etc do that.

[@quercus21]

⁠@@benpollock104Yes! Just like Strava or instagram. You get to choose who and what others see. Solves a bunch of issues. A very wise man - Thomas Sowell said “There are no solutions. There are only trade-offs” if you think about it, it’s very true.

[@adrianparker-e9f]

On the results, how would it be if just someone's parkrun registration number was displayed instead of their name ? Or just have your result sent to you ?

[@ashley1scott]

Parkrun removing the records and using the excuse that they have done it for the reason that it is discouraging new runners doing the event because they are worried that they aren’t quick enough is stupid. The men’s course record at the London marathon is 2:02:37, does that stop 45,000 people running it . NOPE. As for TS running these events, each to their own. It becomes a problem when women’s records are being broken by people that have gone through male puberty

[@FilmMyRun]

With you 100% Ash. Thanks for commenting

[@Mark-o7e]

Spot on 👍

[@Ed7-zz4jk]

Good analogy. One couldn't imagine the organisers of the London Marathon removing statistics and promoting non-competiveness yet they have similar sort of aims of healthy inclusive exercise. Pity a few people at the top of parkrun are ignoring the correct instincts and experiences of the vast majority of current participants and most likely most potential new starters.

[@jasonbeaven5231]

Park run have got this so wrong in my eyes. where is everyone else’s rights !!!!! I won’t be doing park run again ! Not that it will bother them I suppose . Male!! Female !!! That’s it ffs

[@SuperYtc1]

If you are a straight white male you are a bad person. You are privileged. You’re not allowed an opinion. You have to be 10x better than everyone else just for the same job. This guy doesn’t get it because he’s too old to experience most of the influx of this bullshit.

[@ian9552]

I just wish parkrun HQ had been honest about why they felt compelled to implement the change, not issue rambling statements to the contrary. Just maybe then stakeholders would have understood the dilemma and been slightly more accepting of the loss of valued stats. As it is parkrun has created an almighty mess and attracted negative media coverage, yet still remains the target of vitriol from prominent pro and anti-trans athlete campaigners. Not bad for one week's work!

[@tobylowe4482]

Well done Stephen. A good balanced argument and well articulated. I've no idea what the 'solution' is to all of this is, but Parkrun do need to start an open dialogue.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thanks Toby. Comments section seems to be going well? Hahahaha

[@Pahwah]

One of the lists that were removed that no one is talking about, but which has had a significant impact on older Parkrunners, especially here in Australia, is the Most Events list. Many people are motivated to undertake Parkrun Tourism (it is a thing) because of that list. I personally have done 131 different courses, and anyone doing 100 are in the Cowell Club. In Australia many grey nomads (its a thing) travel all around Aus doing new courses. This is very much a "baby with the bathwater" situation.

[@merkyw4187]

It's so hard to talk and stay in the middle with such a huge subscription base Stephen...youre doing an absolutely fantastic job. You're so genuine and honest and well spoken, i value your experienced views and your own personal views too. Continue doing a great job and from a un- remarkable middle aged white male runner sure that's life. Trans subjects are complex however you are doing us as a running community proud. ATB ps sure are not women better than men in all walks and runs of life anyhow :)

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you. Appreciate your support and input.

[@jewels894]

I signed up to Park Run in 2018 and I have never, ever participated in a park run solely based upon the fact that they take photos of every single participate and post it to social media without your approval. I don't want my photo taken and posted to social media, that can be dangerous in many different ways from domestic violence orders, stalkers, and trying to escape an unhealthy past. I'm not sure if they take photos of everybody in other countries, but they certainly do in mine, without the option to opt out.

[@alfdickinson1971]

Some very good points, love the example you used-opened up a different viewpoint. I caught someone cheating parkrun a couple of weeks ago, then realised they probably always cheat courses with more than a lap starting later than the rest of the participants and bunking in half way round at a quite point, it made me laugh at the time. Then I kind of felt abit cheated myself for some strange reason-considered complaining to the RD. But then realised it didnt really effect my enjoyment or anyone elses and plus the volunteers/RD have got enough to contend with so 'akuna mata' its parkrun after all...everyone is on their own journey but can come together on Sat am!

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you so much for your contribution Alf.

[@FilmMyRun]

@WearUnionJack absolutely. The problem is I don’t think most of the people you might be referring to are maliciously cheating. Yes if it were a deliberate plan to get the course record because you know you’re stronger…. But I genuinely don’t think that’s the case in 99.9% of these situations.

[@FilmMyRun]

@WearUnionJack honestly? Every single trans woman is a cold hearted cheat? I just don’t believe it. Plus if you look at it in the grand scheme of things there are not many ‘parkrun records’ held by trans athletes at all. It’s probably statistically negligible.

[@adrianparker-e9f]

I'm glad you brought that subject up. It's a subject that parkrun HQ and volunteers stay clear of ! I've been doing parkrun as a runner and volunteer since 2013. I still don't know if there is an official policy on this subject or what action should be taken. When I've brought this up about someone, the response I get is there's no evidence to support your suspicion' and 'they're only cheating themselves'. Also, some will just say that 'it's not a race' , so you can't cheat.@WearUnionJack

[@adrianparker-e9f]

I've been volunteering and running at parkrun since 2013. On this subject, it was pointed out to me that when someone crosses the finish line, there is no information about what they've done before that point ! We don't even know who was in a parkrun until this point, there's no ID numbers on runners, no signing in or 'policing' of the course. It could be said that parkrun is for 'Entertainment purposes only'. !

[@onamonday1]

It’s horrendous what young people are going through, breasts removed of young girls and the castration of young men. Do I think some people believe they were born in the wrong body - yes but they haven’t ! They need help with their mental health problems. The majority of these young people will grow out of this feeling if we allow them to grow up without medicalisation.

[@nicknack852]

Parkrun need to understand that their whole business can be demolished by someone just setting up a strava group

[@FilmMyRun]

Haha, good point.

[@onamonday1]

How can someone “feel like a woman ? “ what does that even mean ? Without wanting to appear rude but are you really aware of what is going on in schools ? Children are being told they can choose to become a boy/girl as young as the age of 7 ? Ie if you like to play with girls things or like to wear dresses you might not be a boy. It’s based on stereotypes. There are so many detransitioners out there having been permanently harmed by taking puberty blockers.

[@FilmMyRun]

Yes I would certainly be against that. But my children are still quite young and that never happened to them. I’ve also not heard about it happening in any school in my area. That’s not to say it hasn’t happened in some places I’m sure. But this is not common practise in schools. I don’t think the phrase ‘ feel like a woman’ is particularly difficult to imagine. Not sure that’s an argument. Some people do feel like they are in the wrong body. Anyway, look I’m off to bed. Appreciate your input. We don’t have to agree but we do have to remain calm and respectful and argue our points with evidence and clarity rather than emotion and vitriol. Take care.

[@onamonday1]

@@FilmMyRun Sleep well. Believe me it most definitely will be being taught in your children’s school. You are going to be in for a shock !

[@celeste1421]

@@FilmMyRun I 100% second what @onamonday1 has told you. It is absolutely on the curriculum to talk about ‘Gender identity’ to primary school aged children , and if the school gets outside providers in to cover this new topic, then quite extreme things can be told to the children.

[@thomasowen280]

@onamonday1 @celeste1421 This guff about primary schools teaching kids that they can transition and identify as they choose is just rubbish... @FilmMyRun More info can be found here on what the government are doing... educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2023/12/19/gender-questioning-children-guidance-schools-colleges/ This document outlines how primary and secondary schools should tackle these types of issues: assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/62cea352e90e071e789ea9bf/Relationships_Education_RSE_and_Health_Education.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjBofW4iLKEAxXXbEEAHWk7DQ4QFnoECBoQAQ&usg=AOvVaw3s_f6hc_tjiDia7eI8YJpu Please stop spreading misinformation based on hearsay. It's damaging to the public discourse and exposes you as ill-informed and hysterical, grasping onto any anecdote you can find to support your beliefs.

[@conradburdekin722]

I’ve enjoyed your thoughtful reflections on this difficult topic - thank you. I don’t think there’s an obvious ‘fix’, but it would be nice to see parkrun HQ being a little more honest about all the issues.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you Conrad. I think perhaps yours is the most conciliatory comment so far!!

[@conradburdekin722]

@@FilmMyRun Conciliatory Conrad, that’s me 😂

[@JM-rm3lt]

The modern world is a woke nightmare. We can’t have anything nice.

[@FilmMyRun]

Wokism is definitely a minefield!! Haha

[@mjowsey]

The records are still there it just takes a little more effort to find them.

[@JM-rm3lt]

@@mjowsey sadly incorrect

[@mjowsey]

@@JM-rm3lt So, a lot more effort to find them... Aren't they still on the 5k app?

[@shaylorcyclingwahoo]

@@mjowseyyes they are

[@MegaKittyd]

I appreciate this content but find it sad it's been applauded for handling a difficult subject - fairness of half the population shouldn't be this hard - no-one is expecting ParkRun to do any checks - it does not check our age - Women are campaigning for a far policy from ParkRun and that should be enough - if a male identifies as a woman that is their business but ParkRun should not have a policy that allows them to be recorded in the female category

[@MattRuns]

Being straight and white doesn't mean you can't have an opinion on the man vs woman debate, mate.. i have 4 daughters, and the way sports is going is a joke with this woke stuff and everyone tip toeing around topics 👍🏻

[@FilmMyRun]

Appreciate that Matt, thank you

[@JennyH-x3y]

As the Mum of the trans daughter you talked about, I wanted to say thanks for your video. The hate directed at trans people in recent years, including from politicians and the media, has been hard to live with. It's made my daughter become more anxious and withdrawn, especially after she heard about another trans girl being attacked and stabbed in London this week. I'm really worried about her and I desperately don't want her to hide herself away from things that, like parkrun, are good for her and just allow her to live a normal, healthy life. Maybe soon I'll show her your video, and some of the more positive comments below, so she can see that not everyone is hostile to her just for who she is. I guess you know that you'll be criticised by some for trying to take a balanced view - so thank you for doing it anyway.

[@jsh2479]

I agree, a good balanced video and thank you for sharing your story. I am so sorry that your daughter has been made to feel the way she has - and I hope she is able to continue to enjoy Parkrun and live the life she chooses. Here’s to more acceptance.🙏

[@brimptonroach]

I totally agree with Sharon Davies that parkrun have taken the 'cowards' route with this issue. Yet again woman are having to fight for equality in sport.......... & we are still allowed to call running a 'sporting activity'?- lets be clear, its 150 parkrun female records taken by MEN, not the other way round. Ive heard some youtube / podcasts creators & comments intimate that - 'well, its just a bit of fun! as long as men are not allowed to compete in the female catagory at say - the Olympics for example , its ok! No its not , fair & safe single sex sporting oportunnities should be available for all woman & girls, as well as males - along with safe single sex changing rooms !! Hats off the the likes of Sharon, Mara & Martina Navratilova for highlighting this, & taking the abuse you get.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thanks for this. really useful info. Can you give me a source for the 150 records because a lot of people say the number of records is just a drop in the ocean compared to to overall number of events. But of course it is a wider issue. Yes men should not be taking female records. But, we have a bigger debate about people born as men who genuinely and without malice, feel they are born in the wrong body and are living as women and want to be accepted as women. Do we deny them that? How does that affect their mental health and their position in society. I want everyone to feel valued and accepted for who they are. I'm with you, but I have questions!!

[@ethandalton6480]

​@@FilmMyRun150 records is still a drop in the ocean

[@ethandalton6480]

​@@rl7012the fact the trans women don't dominate women's sport proves that they don't have a huge biological advantage

[@FilmMyRun]

@@ethandalton6480 yea it’s really an area that I don’t know much about, but certainly there’s a debate about exactly how much performance difference there is between a woman and a fully transitioned trans woman.

[@ethandalton6480]

@@rl7012 men aren't entering women's sports, though. Trans women are. I know you transphobes hate research almost as much as you hate anyone that doesn't conform go your backwards way of thinking, but trans women don't have the same strength, stamina, etc. as cis men. Please can you name some examples of trans women dominating women's sport. And I don't just mean cherry picking a specific event that has been won by a trans athlete, I mean sustained dominance over a period of time. You obviously care deeply about women's sport, and aren't just jumping on now you've seen a chance to further spread your hate, so you shouldn't have any problem doing that

[@davidblockley9923]

Whatever your view is please can we stop referring to Parkrun as a free event. it is largely funded by government grants and all government money is from taxpayers, which is probably most of the Parkrun participants some of which are also donating to this charity which pays its CEO and other employees in excess of £100,000. The CEO refers to surveys and focus groups, none ofwhich anyone seems to have seen or contributed to. It's not free. It would not be what it is without the amazing volunteers, the nicest people ever.

[@John-Smlth]

I'd love to see this change result in more attention to and development on the 3rd party apps. The old stats still exist and will still update, you've just got to look a little harder to find them! The "5K" app, with a purple logo seems to be the best source of stats and challenges. I'd like to thank you for making this video too; your nuance on this topic is refreshing, and unlike many other commentaries out there.

[@Dekedence]

my understanding (and some tentative attempts at using it) is that the Parkrun API isn't actively maintained and kinda bad.

[@elenaoutdoors]

Great video Stephen. The balance you present is a real tonic.

[@FilmMyRun]

Appreciate that Elena. Thank you

[@patrick7228]

Tough subject. Well done Stephen. Wish there were more like you. I also can see both sides, but I lean toward if having a trans person beat you in a park run is a point of stress for you, congrats, you are living a blessed life.

[@quercus21]

If you’re a woman and trying to beat a local park run record for your age and sex and a biological man masquerading as a woman turns up and runs faster, then that’s not fair on women and woman’s sports. Sorry to sound facetious but that’s how I see it.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

Easy to say when it'll literally never affect you personally because you're male...

[@jonwilson8178]

They should have a sex at birth category

[@FilmMyRun]

Yes they should but that doesn’t mean people will use it. And what did you feel about the example I used in the video? I can see how Mary’s daughter would feel uncomfortable about registering in a different category other than Female. It’s not as clear cut as people think. All in all I’m in favour of what you suggest but there are problems with that approach.

[@FilmMyRun]

@WearUnionJack agreed and on balance I think this is what I would plump for. But did you see the example I gave in the video about the 23 year old trans person. That made me think it’s more complicated.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

​@@FilmMyRun if we make it a choice for trans identified males, where's the choice for females? We can't choose to run in any other category to get fair play and accurate stats. Why should accommodating the unscientific beliefs of a tiny number of males take precedent over fairness for ALL females?

[@Bulldogrunner]

If you are put off doing something because of other people being better then that’s on you, not on the activity

[@FilmMyRun]

Yes people definitely need to get a grip. It really can’t be that intimidating. Sits only a few people running.

[@Bulldogrunner]

@WearUnionJackI completely agree with you, my reference was more towards the fastest 500 list and the reason parkrun have said they have done this. But allowing men claiming they are women to compete against women is completely unfair.

[@isomochyn1]

This is a great take and generally one I agree with. I hope it really isn't the reason they have done it because I think if it is they would have been far better just coming out and saying something like "We recognise some transgender athletes may have an advantage however we have no way to enforce gender groupings and doing so could negatively impact peoples lives so we are going to remove all male or female records". I bet a lot more people would understand that decision.

[@chrisesox9837]

If you don't want to be upset by the stats, don't look for them. The choice is yours...

[@FilmMyRun]

Well we don’t have a choice now! We can’t look at them even if we wanted to haha

[@A.triphil]

Could ParkRun put an asterisk by their records in the following way, *= before 1/2/2024 when (they will have a better PR reason than I can come up with) changed. Like a F1 Grand Prix race at a track will have a different layout, and it will say that you can't exactly compare (they nearly always say times are quicker because of a different track layout) as teh cars are different each year and have to abide by different specifications. I know this doesn't solve the issues but until a universally acceptable solution is found could this work ?

[@FilmMyRun]

All things worth considering Phil. Thanks for your thoughts.

[@timtrenholm3698]

There is TONS of other data available to rate your own personal "gender" running on the internet. Having completed a park run this past week, as a hetero male GenX'er, I see zero issues with the system as it currently stands. I can see my own data to compare my park runs over time. And I don't think using Park Run times as a means to compare myself to other runners will provide solid data anyways. Since most runners at Park Run aren't putting in race efforts, not all park run courses (or weather on the day) are equal. Strive for self improvement, and take some satisfaction that you aren't contributing to a toxic mental health nightmare world.

[@Constantinople12]

Im sorry if i didn't quite get it but is all they did removed the old records on there website. If so then surely their are many others websites or apps that can provide this data. Also parkrun has always had a self report feel as in i could write myself as a 8 year old girl if i really wanted to boost my stats but thats against the spirit.

[@RTDKRunner]

if you want to experience some discrimination for being who you are just try to apply for a job at Disney at the moment ;-) and sadly we don't live in a world where the defintion of the word 'Woke' you use is actual (this is the case for nearly all terms thrown at us that sound benign - they serve a more divisive agenda that nearly as a rule results in the opposite outcomes from what is stated). In the case of 'Woke', philosopher Darren Allen offers a definition that more accuretely reflects what this term means in the modern world - i.e. 'unbearably shallow post-modern Philosophy of Right or associationist dualism, in which truth is a function of its assocation with a pre-determined Good or Bad allocated according to a scale of Moral Worth, with poor, old, white, right-wing, able-bodied, hetero menfolk at the base and rich, young, black, crippled, masked, trans, left-wing females at the apex. Wokism upholds leftist Neo-church totems 1) formal diversity (inner uniformity), 2) inclusion (the exclusion of blasphemers), 3) equality (securing power and privilge for true believers)."

[@CraigRowand]

If parkrun really feel that the records on the website are a put off to new runners, then they should scrap the Age Grading on the results page and in the results email. I would imagine a first timer getting their email saying "You achieved an age-graded score of 33.57%" is probably more offputting.

[@jensmith3719]

I personally love age grading. I feel there is far too much overthinking going on, most first timers at parkrun, am making assumptions here, are turning up to run, jog walk a 5km no pressure, not sure they would be remotely bothered about age grading. I started running in the seventies and in the early eighties just went out and trained hard , had a chat after and went home and jotted a few details down, no tech to get anxious over, i know we evolve but this is being blown way out of proportion and for me is symbolic of the anxiety driven world that is being facilitated by over analysis , people should just enjoy the freedom to run and be happy that they can, if age graded stats are off the park run list then people can just google their time and find it out, sorry , i have rather rambled on,

[@CraigRowand]

Personally I love the stats, and one of my goals was to get an 80% age grade which gave me the motivation to train and try harder each week. I found the tables of faster runners aspirational.

[@SuperYtc1]

That woman talking about her daughter, is everything wrong with society atm. Notice how it's all about her and her daughter. No thought considered to other points of view.

[@FilmMyRun]

That’s pretty harsh. She’s obviously giving her point of view to add to the debate. If you examine the comments, there are plenty of other people arguing the opposite way who haven’t given a second thought to how some others might feel. Unfair to single this lady and her daughter out.

[@peanutbutter604]

Thank you for your work and motivation 🏃‍♂️💨

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you 🙏

[@johnmurray1479]

The age graded results are still on the site.

[@FilmMyRun]

Age graded results yes but not age graded records. Thanks for watching John. Much appreciated.

[@Mr80Miles]

If they believe records are putting people off, why have results at all? Also, they still shows a course average, in my view that is even “worse” than records (which you had to look up) for potential newcomers!

[@FilmMyRun]

Great to have a view which goes against the general consensus. Thank for the input. Much appreciated.

[@3WalkingPoles]

As they say... If you don't how to behave, just be kind. But if I was forced to advise.... Parkrun should introduce categories: women, real women, undoubtedly women, absolutely real woman 100%, women who don't look for a date, women who just came to run 5k, women who like gin and don't know what they are doing here. That should solve the issue. Did I miss any of the categories? 😂

[@FilmMyRun]

You’re so naughty.

[@JohnBirtchetSharpe]

Nothing should have been taken away , the third catagory should have just had the name changed to 'open' this would allow people with the school of thought (and I have sisters and children of mine who happily live with that school of thought) without any outting or any such issues now classed as 'problematic' you cant be inclusive and then say but for special circomstances (therefor being exclusive) instead allow a broad strokes catigory for those that do not want to be restricted to sex, age or any other thing .. and allow people who are 'fine' just so what they have always done. apologies for typo's I can be bothered to go back and change bad grammer or spelling mistakes for a comment 😜

[@seaturtle7777]

Just let us run for the joy of the experience! Keep politics out of it. Don't pollute our running experience and our love for the fundamental values of Parkrun with your personal concerns about gender identification, and your love for competition.

[@theaverageparkrunner]

Just subscribed. You have a few more subscribers than me 😂 . Regarding the parkrun changes , I cannot believe that anyone is intimidated by course records and I doubt that new parkrunners were even aware of them. Everyone knows its a fun run and parkrun have been promoting it thst way for years. The changes are clearly becasue of the transgender issue which is a real shame. They should just have issued a disclamer that all records are on trust and they are not responsible for anyone cheating. Anyone can register in a different category if they really want to. A 19 year old woman can register as a 90year old man and take that record. Or you could just go through the finish line without running the whole course . Its all on trust . A bit like amateur golf. But nobody is getting their knickers in a twist about that. So a few records may be bogus, who cares , its just a bit of fun and looking at the grade records was always interesting so its a real shame they have removed them.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thanks you. Much appreciated. I'll sub back.I totally agree that this is all on trust in a fun, free event. They can't start having dope testing etc. Just crazy. Unfortunately whilst we may feel it's not worth worrying about a few records, it's all very well when they aren't our records. As you say it's a real shame.

[@theaverageparkrunner]

@@FilmMyRun Thanks for the sub back. The records are still in the 5k app for now at least. I do worry that this may escalate to certain groups wanting the weekly results removed altogether and if that happens then parkrun becomes a bit pointless IMO.

[@FilmMyRun]

@@theaverageparkrunner well I’d be tempted to suggest that tbh and see what happens. I’d they really truly want to make it non competitive and ‘inclusive’ then don’t even time the run and don’t have any results. See what happens then. No one will turn up.

[@theaverageparkrunner]

@@FilmMyRun Agreed. They could of course just stop displaying any gender or age information in the results. Just a name and a time. Nobody could complain about anything then, but it would be unfortunate if it came to that.

[@johnh9749]

Parkrun is between a rock and a hard place. Leave the stats in place and the number of female records going to Trans men continues to increase - clearly unfair in my view. So try to implement IAF rules and you can guarantee that some parkrun volunteers will be given a hard time by trans runners thinking that it is their right to run as women. Remove the stats, citing trans issues, and they still get given a hard time. So they have removed the stats and said that they don't encourage beginners. They really dont want parkrun to get involved in this argument. Which I get. Personally the only records that I am interested in are course records and average times (which are still there). Hopefully at some point in the future there will be a settled view on what the trans community can and can't do, and we get our stats back.

[@marksimm-smith2237]

I would like to know what percentage of parkrun finishers are trans, my instinct is so few as to make no mathematical difference. I think leaving everything as it was and allowing the mathematical insignificant amount of transgender folk race as however they identify is the way forward. I would argue that at pro level and Olympic level there is a need for a more nuanced discussion but for recreation I believe that this doesn't apply.

[@FilmMyRun]

I think you’re right, although the women who are beaten in those very few races may argue.

[@ancientmuppet2432]

Parkrun are spineless. They had an opportunity to develop policy to support biological women in sport. They chose the easy way out and decided it was less controversial to screw over the majority and say it was about something that its not. No more Parkrun's for me.

[@trueredred859]

Difficult subject handled well.kudos to you Stephen Hurrah for the WOKES👍👍

[@lwittrock1]

Strava will still show results for each runner tracking. This is a bad move.

[@johnking7649]

Gender is chosen at birth so should be registered as ‘Birth Gender’, otherwise it is unfair.

[@will_hargreaves]

Stephen, as a happy subscriber to your channel let me say I love your KZbin videos and your Ultramarathon documentaries. They are as good as anyone’s in my opinion. But whilst I did appreciate your first video on this topic, I do have to respectfully disagree with most of what you’ve said in this video. There aren’t “many genders”. In fact gender is really about language (le or la en Français). There are many personalities but only two sexes. I think the majority of people still hold to this reality, however a vocal minority are pushing this new ideology as some kind of virtuous worldview. People who consider themselves on the left of the political spectrum are particularly under-pressure to “admire the king’s new clothes” or risk being excommunicated from “Club BBC / Guardian“ (think J.K.Rowling). To some degree it feels like this follow-up video is an example of the outworking of this. At the end of the day, the impact of trans ideology is far greater for children & young adults who are fed this lie by adults that should know better, and are subsequently mutilated or sterilised. This heartbreaking reality puts the deletion of a few Parkrun records, and even the desecration of women’s sports in the shade. I hope you appreciate the spirit in which I write this ad-hominem free comment. Otherwise, keep up the good work.

[@quercus21]

You put this better than I could. My issue is a lot of left leaning people want to do the “right thing” but don’t look at the down stream effects. This is a real “the emperor's new clothes” situation for sure. The fact that intelligent people are colluding in this lie is frightening. I want people to know that you can disagree with this trans ideology and still be a good human.

[@FilmMyRun]

Hi Will. yes, I actually agree with your 'many personalities but only two sexes'. I think I would have said something similar in the video if I'd thought of it. It's such a tough subject. Just like society generally accepts that some people are born homosexual and it's no longer a 'mental illness', surely it's possible that some people are born feeling they are the wrong gender. I've heard this story about some agenda being pushed in schools and children being sterilised or mutilated. Really? is this really going on in our schools? Is it really as prevalent as some are making out or are some people just upset that in 2024 their children are getting a holistic sex education? I honestly don't know. But my children are still quite young and I see no evidence of them being force fed some 'gender agenda'. I genuinely thought I had presented a fairly balanced argument in the video. I supported women's rights not be be beaten unfairly but I also supported trans women's right to want to be accepted as women. I presented the arguments about performance differences and discussed a real world example of a genuine trans woman just trying to live her life who loves parkrun. Really can't understand what there was to 'disagree' with in the video. I am still against parkrun removing the stats and I'm still backing women in not getting unfairly done out of records. But I'm also supporting genuine trans women who want to be accepted. I think you must agree there have been some awful comments on this video and 99% of them have been from the anti-woke brigade hating on the trans community.

[@quercus21]

There is a doc called (The War On Children) by Robby Starbuck. Pretty eye opening as to what’s happening, granted it’s a US based film but as they say, “America gets a cold and we catch it”

[@will_hargreaves]

I appreciate your opposition to Parkrun deleting records and also the desire to protect women's sport. I think those are very important points, and I applaud you for making them. Where I think the fundamental disagreement comes from is the idea that "trans-women" are actually women; that women can be born in men's bodies (and visa versa). Not only is that patently not the case, but I think it's cruel rather than kind to affirm someone's delusion. For example, I'd be devastated if my daughter suffered from anorexia, and the NHS's response was to "affirm her identity as fat". It would be even worse if they then gave her medication to lose more weight. This current trend isn't just related to sex either. We're also seeing people thinking they are various animals that have been born in the wrong body. Matt Walsh has done a superb documentary called "What is a woman?". In it he interviews a woman who is supposedly "trans-species" and says that she is a cat. You've got other people "identifying as disabled" and wanting doctors to mutilate their bodies to match their imagined disability. I think the other elephant in the room is that it's only really a minority of people identifying at "trans" are actually deluded. For many it's simply a fetish. For others it's a political stance aimed at undermining "the patriarchy". For others it's a form of attention seeking. For other still it's a short-term case of gender-confusion whilst going through puberty. As for hating on the "trans-community", I haven't read through all the comments, but if there are people insulting someone for having a mental illness then I'm with you that this isn't right. But it certainly isn't hating on the "trans-community" to hate the ideology which is deceiving them and causing many of them to mutilate themselves rather than get the support and psychological treatment they so badly need. Quite the opposite in my view. Sadly it seems to me that accusations of "hate" and "transphobia" are commonly thrown around by the woke-mob in an attempt to try to shame their opposition and shutdown the debate. One final point on what's being taught in schools. I take your comment that you aren't aware of any agenda being pushed in good faith. It's not something that a lot of people are aware of as the BBC etc aren't keen to report on it. Here is an example of where some schoolkids have recorded their teacher berating them for not accepting this pernicious worldview: www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12209919/Full-audio-Student-rejected-classmates-claim-shes-CAT-scolded-teacher.html#v-3158979199302324091

[@tattiesconebuttie]

​@@FilmMyRun please read 'Time to Think' to find out what has been happening to vulnerable and LGB youth at gender clinics here in the UK. It is a national scandal. The book is by a newsnight journalist, it is not niche nor conspiratorial. The 'Gender: a wider lens' podcast is also a great source of info about the state of youth gender medicine and safer exploratory therapeutic alternatives. Just because you haven't yet seen something personally, doesn't mean it's not a problem.

[@gorjn1]

It seems like a pragmatic and sensible decision. Well done Parkrun. Also it will attract more maths phobic people to take up the sport 😊

[@onamonday1]

In relation to your comment that some people feel they were born in the wrong body. Tell me should we affirm anorexics are fat because they “feel “ they are. Should we affirm when people hear voices that these voices are real ?

[@FilmMyRun]

Yup it’s a tough question. The difference is if an anorexic continues down that path they may well die. If a trans person continues they may be much happier. They may also not be happier at all. But I accept nothing is cut and dried. The world is a complex place to navigate and it’s very hard to accept someone for who they believe they are when it’s so far removed from who we are.

[@onamonday1]

But sex is not complicated. It’s a scientific fact. We have either XX or XY chromosomes. I am a believer in science

[@onamonday1]

As for the harm that can be caused by affirming anorexia. Medicalisation and the surgery that is performed on perfectly healthy bodies is very harmful. These poor people will never be able to have children and they are so young when they first get affirmed.

[@FilmMyRun]

@@onamonday1 yea, not going to argue with you there

[@stevieguk8014]

Does Parkrun contribute to the upkeep of parks?

[@FilmMyRun]

There is no requirement to contribute to the upkeep. Only that the park is left as it was found. However, some parkruns do organise litter picks etc but this is entirely voluntary and not stipulated by parkrun HQ or in the agreements between parkrun and the local authority

[@stevieguk8014]

Thanks for responding. Just that I noticed in our local park a lot if wear and tear due to the wet weather. Although, I am in favour of these runs there is an impact for other park users and costs incurred by council tax payers for extra maintenance.

[@FilmMyRun]

@@stevieguk8014 absolutely and that’s exactly what happened with Little Stoke parkrun where the council asked runners to pay to run to help pay for the upkeep of the park and parkrun refused and shut down that particular parkrun. It was a big media news event a couple of years ago

[@paulsummerly8203]

A good video Stephen but it's time to move on and just turn up and run park runs and forget all the politics and opinions that are going on.

[@FilmMyRun]

Yup that’s my final word on the subject

[@JM-rm3lt]

Sadly this is the attitude that gets timing and positions taken away eventually.

[@ianc.4601]

​@@JM-rm3lt so what? It's not a race so why worry?

[@adrianparker-e9f]

I think the timing and results will go next. It will be a self timed thing if you want a time and are bothered about it. Still, that wouldn't stop fast runners appearing at 9am ( unless they get rid of a fixed start time ?) Maybe they'll just 'invite everyone to come to the park for coffee, cake and a chat'. 'Drop by between 10am and 12pm' type of thing. @@JM-rm3lt

[@ianstyring9602]

I like your videos, but can you never use 'cisgender' ever again, as it's not a 'thing'. They're just male//men/man or female/women/woman.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thanks so much for your thoughts Ian. I have done some research on this before the video was made. It is an accepted term in psychology, science and academia. It wasn’t invented by the trans community and it was useful in this video to be very clear to ALL parties to whom I was referring. Sorry if it offended you but it is just a word and we need to accept that whether we like it or not or agree or not, there are people who exist who are living as a different gender to the one they were born and it’s useful to make a distinction when discussing these matters. Ask the very best Ian

[@ethandalton6480]

Have you heard of adjectives?

[@arendlanser8818]

Mate grow a pair. I was interested in what you were saying still you started prattling on about that privilege nonsense. No need to apologise for who you are and how you were born. You are still entitled to an opinion whoever you are or whatever your background is.

[@FilmMyRun]

Thank you! Appreciate your support on that

[@SuperYtc1]

Agreed. Loved the way you put it. 😂 Too many men haven’t got a pair. Ironically the cause of all this Parkrun debacle in the first place.

[@SuperYtc1]

I identify as Eliud Kipchoge.

[@seaturtle7777]

The way you have handled your concerns about the records and lists being taken down reflects badly on you and your channel. What has Parkrun done to you and your mission to justify your chipping away at theirs?

[@FilmMyRun]

Thanks so much for your input. It’s really great to have your opinions even if you disagree! However could I get a little more information from you. What specifically did you feel was badly handled? What things did you disagree with. I was hopeful that’s I’d presented a fair and balanced view but I need to learn the things I did wrong so I can improve next time. Thank you

[@seaturtle7777]

​@@FilmMyRunFair enough. Will do. Replying with additional comment.

[@SuperYtc1]

@@seaturtle7777so where is the additional comment? I’m waiting. We’re all waiting. You’ve had 2 months to write it.

[@bronxcheer1484]

You argued both sides in the last video. Pick one.

[@FilmMyRun]

I honestly don’t have one. I can see both sides and it’s a very difficult situation. All I do know is I want the stats back. Thanks for commenting!

[@garyduffy4661]

It's an insult to my wife, daughter, mother and any other woman to use the trans ideology term 'cis'. It shows that either you've bought into that ideology or don't want cancelling because of your actual opinion. Parkrun should have just created 2 extra categories so that women aren't disadvantaged. I'll come back when ideology isn't a thing on your channel.

[@FilmMyRun]

Oh for Christ sake Gary. It’s just terminology to make things clear to all parties. Furthermore having an ideology is a pretty good idea. It means you think about stuff. We may not all agree, and I actually think I’ve presented a fairly balanced argument here. I have not nailed my own colours to any mast. What I will not have is pointless nit picking about semantics just because YOU have an agenda. The amount of vitriol and anger I’m seeing in the comments is coming largely from the anti-woke agenda and honestly is horrible to see. Just be nice to people ffs. I don’t want women’s sport to be undermined by unfairness, but I won’t accept this level of abuse aimed at people who mean no harm to anyone. As I said in the video, I don’t have the answer. But I know what I’m not enjoying seeing and it’s not coming from the trans community.

[@Npgilly1976]

Well said , 👏 💯agree, cis women is a horrible term for a real woman yet we all have to be inclusive!!

[@FilmMyRun]

@@Npgilly1976 it isn’t a term i use in general, but that’s because I rarely talk to the two sides of this argument at the same time. This is a term used for both male and female. It’s an acceptable term in science and psychology. It’s not just some term made up by the trans community.

[@Npgilly1976]

@@FilmMyRun it’s only spoken by trans , live and let live but don’t expect for vast majority to go along and pretend that someone is a woman and in fact is male, sorry but there only 2 genders regardless how it’s dressed up and that is a biological fact.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

The term "cisgender" implies that everyone has a gender identity. We don't. It also suggests that non trans people identify with sex stereotypes. We don't. I am a masculine same sex attracted woman, there's nothing gender conforming about me, but I know I'm female, so I'm not trans. To call me cis is inaccurate and insulting. It is not a neutral term.

[@terraflow__bryanburdo4547]

"trans woman" a true oxymoron.

[@FilmMyRun]

We’re not debating this. People have sex changes. They exist. Deal with it. Don’t allow it to frighten you because it feels so alien to you.

[@Constantinople12]

"transgender issue"

[@FilmMyRun]

I'm open to ways in which I could have expressed this better. As I said in the video I did not want to talk about this anyway as I don't feel qualified. Happy to be educated on correct terminology or language. Thanks for you comment.

[@Constantinople12]

@@FilmMyRun yeah i know what you ment but out of context it sounds "interesting"

[@trainwellracewell]

Trans records shouldn’t be included in records. Only male & female by birth…the way God created us

[@andys121.]

your son isnt your daughter , get some balls .

[@FilmMyRun]

How does that comment help anyone Andy, seriously wtf mate?

[@FilmMyRun]

@@benm468 but there are ways of having a debate and making your point without being incredibly hurtful and some would say offensive. Would you say that to the lady’s face? How do you think she or her daughter would feel about that? Maybe they will read this comment?

[@dougmoore7424]

While I appreciate your content I think @ben468 is simply trying to say that this shouldn’t even be a debate. Denial of the fact that so many people are lying to themselves, hurting themselves and have severe mental conditions not being addressed by a false virtue premise. We shouldn’t be debating. We should be helping and speaking truth.

[@FilmMyRun]

@@dougmoore7424 understood and I agree there are two genders. However, drilling that into someone who feels they’ve been born into the wrong body, seems to me like the religious nuts who try to convert homosexuals because they believe that’s a mental illness. Doesn’t feel good to me. Who you are is not in your physical body but in your head and there are, without question, and without having been indoctrinated, people who truly feel they have been born into the wrong gender.

[@FilmMyRun]

@@benm468 is that how you feel about homosexuality too?

[@christinagrimwade8702]

Been running parkrun for years. Now suddenly I'm "an issue" and we need to have a debate... and yet again, it's a lot of people talking about us, and not to or with us. Really disappointed as enjoyed your content up until now.

[@FilmMyRun]

Hi. Christina. I did say I didn’t want to talk about it. I did say I’m not qualified to talk about it. The ‘issue’ isn’t you, it’s the situation. What exactly is it that I said which has upset you so much? Have I misrepresented something? I AM talking to you and you saw my example, I have been talking WITH people about this.

[@jenniferpollitt7423]

Park run is a ‘fun’ timed 5km run and anyone getting upset over trans inclusion into the event needs to have a long think why. Trans people are not an issue or problem to be solved, there is no agenda. Like you say, park run is a place where anybody can turn up and walk and run. If removing the stats and records make the event more inclusive - great. There are other ways to get performance stats. My view will always be that trans and non binary folk have a place on any start line - trans women are women, trans men are men, non binary people are valid. It’s as simple as that.

[@htmonaro1969]

Thanks for the great video, I identify as "woke" as well. I made some comments on several Facebook groups recently and had some howling me down because they believe transwomen should not hold a single women's Parkrun record. I know several transwomen and none of them are a threat to anyone. The reality is a very small number of women's course records are held by transwomen, although I suspect no one really knows how many, because most of us only see what we want to see. I have seen some stats that only 1 open women's record and 2 women's age group records are held by transwomen. I read in a Runners World article from 2023 that over 2300 Parkruns exist around the world, so 1 is not a lot in the overall scheme of things. There also needs to be some perspective on all Parkrun records. It's easy to think that all Parkruns are as big as the ones we run in, but there are some that have just 5 or 10 regular runners, and if someone were to turn up in an age group category that has not had a runner before, well guess what, even if they walked it, they would still get the age group course record. I don't know what Parkrun can do about it, other that to establish a gender X category for all age groups. This may actually encourage more transgender people to join the movement. It would not be compulsory to identify as such, unless the individual concerned takes a course record in whatever gender they identify with. My son spent 6 months in Europe, mostly in Brussels, but he also spent a month or more in the UK. He was simply not prepared for how large the London based Parkruns were compared to the average Australian Parkrun. Some perspective is needed in all of this.

[@quercus21]

Hello. Just to add my perspective. I don’t believe for one second that people don’t want transgender runners to join in. Far from it. The issue with this subject is that if you are a woman and have trained to beat a certain park run record and a biological male who has transitioned comes along with all the strength benefits of growing up as a male and beats you, I believe that woman has every right to feel aggrieved. It is certainly true that there aren’t many transgender people in society let alone as runners but there needs to be consistency because it will affect some Women. To a lot of people this stuff matters. I want to protect woman’s sport as from my perspective it’s under attack!Maybe open up a category for transgender runners? Maybe give the option to be anonymous? There are a lot of simple solutions. Lastly, a lot of people who are “woke” are trying to do the right thing, and sometimes identify some real issues, but are not looking up stream and often make the situation worse. As someone who leans more to the left, this has become more apparent to me. I’ve seen it creep in to every facet of society and it’s causing a lot of issues in society. Have a good day and I hope you don’t take my reply in a negative light.

[@tattiesconebuttie]

If frequency is the key to whether an injustice is a problem or not, how many age graded female course records being taken by males would be too many? What's the cut off where fairness for women and girls kicks in as a priority?

[@htmonaro1969]

​@@tattiesconebuttie so you didn't read all of my comment then? If you had you would have read that I, along with many other runners, am proposing a separate category for trans people. My point about the small number of women's course records being held by transwomen (which in itself is a very diverse community that defies accurate description) is that the vitriol and blatant transphobic comments are unjustified. From the comments I have read and heard on social media over the last several months, one could be forgiven for thinking that most or "many" (as some have suggested) women's course records are held by transwomen, which is simply untrue. My position is that transpeople should be accepted for who they are, which includes giving them the right to have their own category of Parkrun course and age group records, as opposed to deleting all women's and men's open and age group records. That way, no one is discriminated against. I know a few transwomen who self identify as such, but others who are not able to do so for multiple reasons. If the latter group wish to challenge for a Parkrun course record, they should do so in either their gender at birth or in the proposed transgender category, but if they don't wish to challenge a course record, then who are they disadvantaging? Most of the transphobic commentary seems to suggest these course records are easy. In my local Parkrun I wouldn't be close to the women's 60+ course record, even though I was until quite recently a fairly competitive 60+ age group athlete. I took silver in the M60-64 State Master's 5000m Championship and 4th in the M60-64 age group at the Gold Coast HM, both in 2022. This is not a simple, binary debate. You're perfectly entitled to your own opinion, but you're also not entitled to misrepresent mine.

[@davidforshaw2220]

Like you Stephen I also do not agree with the removal of data recently introduced by park run. I am also pro 'woke'. Time will tell whether those at the top of PR who made the decision to change will see sense / listen to popular opinion and admit that they got it wrong.

[@FilmMyRun]

Appreciate your thought David thank you

[@martynjoyce2431]

I do not think it's to do with gender (at least mostly). Surely they have taken off the records because having records makes it look more like a race to reluctant, risk averse landowners with potential increased insurance obligations.

[@coops111s]

😳 I’m sorry but has everything to do with gender, it all stems from men running in the woman’s category, it has to be stopped or woman’s sport is finished

[@jasonbeaven5231]

I always like and follow ur videos & have done for years but I’m not liking this one !!! I wouldn’t bother discussing this joke of a subject 👎

[@FilmMyRun]

It’s a shame you feel that way. Thanks for commenting though. We don’t have to agree. We all love running and that’s ultimately why we’re here. The subject is controversial and difficult but it is a thing and sometimes we can’t hide our heads in the sand and pretend stuff doesn’t exist. People are different and they think differently from you or me and that’s ok. As long as we treat everyone with respect we should be ok despite our differences.

[@faulypi]

Parkrun has fallen victim to one of the ills of our society, transphobic busybodies. Parkrun has been put in a somewhat difficult position from a PR perspective and acted to take the spotlight away from transgender participants. While I understand their motivations, I don't think it was necessary. A better soloution would have been to clearly state that Parkrun cannot police the personal data of participants and also create non-binary categories. This would simultaneously raise the acceptance of transgender athletes, but provide specific categories, and also leave it clear that Parkrun will not force the outing of anyone.

[@dienowska]

Why are you making this controversial/hateful content? Your channel used to be about running. Now it looks like you’re selling out to get views from spiteful people and spurring divisiveness in the running community. Just go back and rewatch your Wendover Woods 50m video 6 years back - that’s the type content I want to see. I can’t see how any of your more recent rant videos would ever make a positive change. If you go back and rewatch these rants 2-3 years from now, you think you’re going to be proud of this content even if it gets views?

[@FilmMyRun]

What in particular is so hateful about it? I’ve tried to be pretty impartial. I don’t think I’ve said anything offensive? Can you identify specific things and I can reflect on them. Thanks so much for your input.

[@dienowska]

@@FilmMyRun My comment refers to the change in the direction of your channel. From the coverage of the whistler controversy, to Kilian and Zach’s letter, now parkrun and gender issues. I also distinctly remember you interviewing women ultra runners and talking about affirmative action in running event registration numbers, where you repeatedly condescend to “white skinny men”. This a few months back. Now in this video you’re saying “I am not in a position to comment on gender issues, because I am white heterosexual male” (paraphrasing), but then proceed to talking about gender issues. I get that you’re trying to boost views, and who doesn’t want to empower women or to resolve the gender issues that you mention. But one video is not going to make a significant change in the status quo social norms and I’d enjoy your content a lot more if the channel focused it’s energy on running and events rather than stirring controversy.

[@JM-rm3lt]

Cobblers

[@FilmMyRun]

@@dienowska yes I understand and you are right in that I am certainly doing more videos about difficult subjects and of course I want to make videos which get views. However, I still record my runs and there are plenty of race videos on the channel and there will be plenty more. One thing is that I have been unwell for a few weeks and my marathon training black has gone out of the window. So no training series unfortunately. But Cape Wrath Ultra in May so that should be good. Appreciate your honest input