Associated Press
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| Kulsoom Abdullah, a female Muslim weightlifter |
PENANG, Malaysia -- Weightlifting's world governing body agreed Wednesday to modify its clothing rules to accommodate a Muslim woman competing for the United States.
Kulsoom Abdullah of Atlanta was barred from entering higher-level U.S. competitions. Her Muslim faith requires that she covers her arms, legs and head, which violates international rules governing weightlifting attire.
USA Weightlifting took her case to the International Weightlifting Federation, which agreed to change the rules after its technical committee reviewed the proposal.
"The modified rule changes permit athletes to wear a one-piece, full-body, tight-fitted 'unitard' under the compulsory weightlifting costume," IWF vice president Sam Coffa said.
"The 'unitard' will enable technical officials to effectively adjudicate areas of the body which are essential to the correct execution of the lift."
The old rules didn't allow suits that covered either the knees or elbows because judges had to be able to see that both have been locked out to complete a lift.
Abdullah said a tight-fitting shirt would allow judges to have a good view of her elbows. She also said she'd be willing to wear a leg covering that conforms to her religion but allows judges to determine whether she's completed a lift.
The new clothing modifications go into effect immediately. The U.S. championships are being held in Iowa next month.
"This rule modification has been considered in the spirit of fairness, equality and inclusion," IWF President Tamas Ajan said.
The IWF said the modification "promotes and enables a more inclusive sport environment and breaks down barriers to participation."
