A global network of champions,
driving change to support female athletes
About SheRACES
SheRACES was founded by Sophie Power, ultrarunner, trustee of Women in Sport
and mother of 3
Our History
I was famously photographed racing the UTMB, a 106-mile mountain race while breastfeeding my 3-month-old baby. I wanted to defer my place until I was fully fit, but while the organisation will defer places for injury, for them pregnancy was seen as a choice. Completing the UTMB was a dream for me, and having already lost a hard-won place when pregnant with my first son, I chose to race. Many women lose out on that opportunity.
My why
I founded SheRACES to ensure women have the opportunities to race we deserve. Where races are designed through a female lens as well as a man’s. Where we are encouraged to participate, that our differences are taken into account and our achievements are held in equal regard.
BECAUSE A WOMAN’S PLACE IS ON THE START LINE
- Sophie
Several race directors contacted me after my story went viral saying they were embarrassed they had never thought about pregnancy – or even that women have different experiences of races to men.
They wanted to know how they could improve their race and value female athletes equally to male.
Many more women have contacted me sharing their experiences and asking for support in making race policies equitable.
Our campaign has already had some major wins but there is a long way to go.
Why does SheRACES exist?
We believe that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to race, and an equal experience when they do. But women are still underrepresented on the start line, and 96%* have experienced unequal treatment in a race.
We can’t remove all the barriers to entry – some are societal or biological (we’re still the ones having babies). But there are many barriers that CAN be removed, and many improvements that can be made to value us equally when we do race.
*Source: SheRACES survey of >2000 women
What are SheRACES' goals?
Our goal is to ensure more women experience the joy of racing. Getting more women onto the start line and having a brilliant experience when they race. We want to support more race directors to make their events as accessible and inclusive as possible – holding the female competition in equal regard.
Is it just about running?
SheRACES was driven by experiences in the running world. But all races, in whatever sport, should ensure that women are equally valued and encouraged to take part. This includes triathlon, cycling and more. We’d love to hear from other sports about what can be done to drive change.
In December 2024 we released our triathlon guidance, which can be seen here.