Gay News from London

Mianne Bagger faces new challenges, including British Open

This year Mianne Bagger will have a very different fight on her hands. Having made history by becoming the first transsexual woman to qualify for a golf tour, the Danish-based player will now find out if she is good enough to make a living from the game. Ty Votaw, America’s LPGA Tou commissioner, has confirmed to Bagger a rule change is under discussion. “With any luck it’s a step in the right direction toward informing their membership and an eventual vote on changing their constitution,” she said. “If all the research shows I have no unfair advantage, what possible reason can there be for justifying the rules that are in place? When I hear people do that, the only thing I hear is prejudice and discrimination.” Meanwhile, transsexual golfers will be allowed to play in this year's women's British Open in a policy change made by the Ladies Golf Union. Bagger is expected to enter. However, Bagger would prefer you not call her a transsexual. (Thanks, Carl)[Date: 14-Feb-05 ]