WA Girls Who Refused to Race Against Transgender Athlete Get Support

A girls' sports rally is planned in Camas, Washington, following a controversial cross-country meet where several Camas High School runners refused to compete in a race involving a transgender athlete. The Camas Courage Rally, scheduled for October 21, comes as Washington voters prepare to decide Initiative 638, a ballot measure addressing transgender athlete participation in girls' school sports. In an exclusive interview with The Center Square, Tumwater High School athlete Francis Staudt responds to the Camas cross-country protest, praises the runners' decision and explains why she plans to attend the rally. The event, organized by activist Amy Sousa, is expected to draw girls' sports advocates and state lawmakers. Staudt, who previously spoke out about transgender participation in girls' athletics, urges the Camas runners to stand firm. The controversy has attracted national attention and intensified debate over fairness, inclusion, Title IX and Washington school sports policies ahead of the November 3 election. Camas Courage Rally: October 21, 2026, at 2 p.m., 2600 NW Lake Road, Camas, Washington, according to the event flyer. Subscribe to Washington In Focus Daily for Washington education, elections, government accountability and public policy coverage. 📱 Washington news by text: Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016. #CamasHighSchool #GirlsSports #Initiative638 #WashingtonNews