Transgender athlete AB Hernandez from Jurupa Valley High School continued to make headlines at the 2026 CIF Southern Section Track & Field Masters Meet in Moorpark, California.

On May 23, 2026, Hernandez secured first-place finishes in the long jump, triple jump, and high jump, earning qualification for the state championship meet in Clovis the following weekend.In the triple jump, Hernandez shared first place on the podium per CIF rules requiring co-champions in such cases.This marks the second straight year Hernandez has qualified for state in these events.Last year, the athlete won two state titles.

The situation has sparked ongoing debate about fairness in girls' sports, with critics arguing biological males competing in female categories create an uneven playing field.High school girls, including Reese Hogan, have been directly affected as some missed qualification opportunities.

Parents and observers expressed concerns about competitive equity, while Hernandez's mother previously stated she felt her child was being used as a political pawn amid election-year discussions.

California Governor Gavin Newsom's office defended the state's 2013 law allowing participation consistent with gender identity, emphasizing fairness, dignity, and respect.

This comes after President Trump's executive order aimed at keeping biological males out of women's sports and potential federal funding implications for non-compliant states.The event proceeded without major protests this time, though some boos were heard during podium ceremonies.

The case highlights the continued national tension between inclusion policies and concerns for female athletes' opportunities in competitive sports.