[bobdeb]

If you consider the history of road races, gender, followed by age, has been the standard for classifications. Initially, there were males only races (e.g. Boston Marathon back when) until women rightfully protested and broke through. However they quickly realized they couldn't compete on an equal standing with men so a female classification was created. Sound fair?

With few exceptions, such as charity fund raisers, you must first quality in a previous marathon, within a certain time period, before being accepted into Boston. However, qualifying times for women were lower than for men in the same age group. They didn't have to run as fast to quality. Sound fair?

In my experience there were only a very few 'male only' races. This has completely changed as women could eventually get accepted but on different terms. For example there were races where you had to consume food and beverages at certain checkpoints without throwing up and being disqualified. Dead serious. Women couldn't consume as much as men so they had other limitations. Sound fair?

However, no male dare enter women's only races. That was their bastion only. It was ok for women to enter men's races, with considerations, but not men into women's. Sound fair?

My point being that women are going to find a way to protect their standing against any 'unfairness' and work to gain any handicap over those deemed physically superior. They are legion in this cause. Especially if there are records to be set, trophy and prize money to be won and scholarships at stake.

They will rise against any person they feel has an advantage. There will be some kind of handicap adopted to ensure they can compete on an even field against any class of individual.