Tour of Britain/Podium Girls

[Zen]

Short blog here
http://jezebel.com/5613749/the-patronizing-tradition-of-britains-podium-girl
The discussion comments are interesting as well.

"However, Helen Pidd (writing in the original Guardian article) points out that there is one more glaring problem—and it's not just the obvious sexism of having a woman presented as a prize for athleticism. No, the "crushingly depressing" fact is this: the hostesses are often top cyclists themselves. The Tour of Britain is the nation's most important cycling event. It is also all-male. The only way women can participate is through capitalizing on their looks and handing out awards. Most of the podium girls are not aspiring models or actresses—they're athletes, looking for a way to participate in the biggest event of their chosen sport."

[shootingstar]

Short blog here
http://jezebel.com/5613749/the-patronizing-tradition-of-britains-podium-girl
The discussion comments are interesting as well.

"No, the "crushingly depressing" fact is this: the hostesses are often top cyclists themselves. The Tour of Britain is the nation's most important cycling event. It is also all-male. The only way women can participate is through capitalizing on their looks and handing out awards. Most of the podium girls are not aspiring models or actresses—they're athletes, looking for a way to participate in the biggest event of their chosen sport."


That is sad. I don't follow major bike racing competitions within North America, if this does/will happen, it is hoped that some strong female racing cyclists speak out and refuse 'hostessing" duties.

[loopybunny]

Interesting... thanks for sharing.

What they're paid is insulting. If I were in their shoes, I'd almost rather do it as a volunteer.

I wonder what Jen Caudill thinks of this.

Edited: Nevermind, Jen commented on Twitter. She won't be applying. However, she also didn't really give an opinion.

[malkin]

Spectator, maybe, if not podium girl?