Riley Gaines, a swimmer at the University of Kentucky, recalls the moment she first saw Lia Thomas compete at the 2022 NCAA Swim Championships.

Gaines vividly remembers the 500-yard freestyle race where Thomas dominated, leaving other female swimmers in her wake. The impact of Thomas' participation in women's sports has sparked a contentious debate about fairness and inclusivity.

Gaines, a dedicated and passionate swimmer, has been vocal about her concerns regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports.

She expressed her dismay at witnessing the emotional toll it took on her fellow competitors when they realized they were competing against a transgender athlete who had previously competed on the men's team.

The issue of fairness in women's sports is deeply personal to Gaines, who has dedicated years of hard work and training to excel in her sport.

Her love for swimming began at a young age, and she has worked tirelessly to achieve success in the pool. Her journey from breaking pool times as a young swimmer to earning a spot on the University of Kentucky Women's Swim Team reflects her unwavering dedication to the sport.

Gaines' concerns about the integrity of women's sports stem from her belief that allowing male-bodied athletes to compete in women's competitions could have far-reaching consequences.

She emphasizes that her objection is not directed at any individual but rather at the decisions made by athletic governing bodies.

Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding the issue, Gaines is grateful for the unwavering support she has received from her university, coaches, and teammates.

She feels empowered to speak out and advocate for the preservation of fair competition in women's sports.

As the debate continues to unfold, Gaines remains committed to raising awareness about the potential impact of allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's sports.

Her advocacy for fairness and integrity in sports serves as a testament to her dedication not only to swimming but also to the principles of fair play and inclusivity.