The herstory of womyn in sports is peppered with instances of exclusion. This fall as you settle into catch Olympics 2000, broadcast from that land down under, pause to remember that in ancient Greece womyn were forbidden to take part in the Olympic competition. Merely viewing the games could result in a womon being thrown to her death.

When the Olympic games were revived in 1896, the games were once again strictly for men. In 1900, womyn were first permitted to compete in the physically challenging games of croquet. There were 271 athletic events in the 1996 games in Atlanta. There were 165 male only athletic events. There were 95 female only athletic events. There were 6500 men competing and 3700 women competing.

Now perhaps womyn should take some solace in the fact that there are certainly more available competitive events today than in 1900. However, at the advent of the new millennium, we are probably better served to wonder at the disparity. Which of the athletic events are male only and why? Why are there less females than males competing? Why are the female events often overlooked by the media?

Our awareness and sensitivity to the issues of gender inequities in the Olympics and concomitant proactive responses hastens the day when gender apartheid in sports is a relic of the past. This year as you view the games through feminist activist eyes you may notice various particularities.

Some countries do not participate. Some countries do not send female athletes. Media coverage is unequal. Athletic endorsements are disproportionate. There is no real reason why womyn cannot participate in many male only athletic events.

Remember, since 1900 when womyn were permitted to participate in only one Olympic competition until today, change has been a result of continued challenges. Do not hesitate to contact the media. Do not hesitate to contact the International Olympic Committee. Certainly, support the womyn participating in the games. Support the womyn athletes in national, collegiate and local competitions. Familiarize yourself with the basics of Title IX and its remedies in athletic cases.

Sports is an avenue of opportunity. It is a feminist venue, as well. We have many occasions at various levels to champion young girls and womyn as they pursue their dreams. Participate, if possible, in a sport yourself. Just do it. Expunge the myth that womyn can't.