We are excited to introduce a number of platform updates that allow race directors the choice of more easily configuring events for non-binary participants. Our work here isn’t done—we’ll walk through the changes that went live in Phase II, and what we have planned moving forward.
A Quick Recap of Phase I: #
In Phase I, we implemented the following changes to support non-binary in the platform:
- Gender Identity Option:
We introduced the “Non-binary” Gender Identity option in user profiles. Users could select “Non-binary,” and their profile banner displayed no value instead of “M” or “F” next to their age. - Registration Options:
During event registration, non-binary runners were given the choice to apply their results to either the “Male” or “Female” category. - Results Display:
On Results pages, the selected gender category for results appeared next to the names of non-binary runners. Race Directors had the ability to export both the Gender (category for results) and Gender Identity (from the user’s profile) in their Participant exports. This ensured the accommodation of non-binary as a category for race awards.
Phase II Platform Changes #
Gender vs Division #
In Phase 2, we are expanding the display of non-binary (X) on the platform. New users are now able to create non-binary accounts in addition to existing users being able to change to non-binary. This change includes replacing gender as a categorization tool with division. There are now three divisions, Men, Women, and Non-binary. The new non-binary selection follows the runner throughout the site including on event entrants lists and results pages. At this time, there are not non-binary division rankings or a specific non-binary division in places where the site interface requires gender-specific drop downs or filters. We anticipate addressing a deeper integration of divisional rankings and site UI in the coming months.
Non-binary Available Across the Platform #
We have ensured that the non-binary (X) option is available on various pages, including Results, Entrants lists, Lottery Applicants, Shopping Cart, and the Confirmation page. Non-binary is also an option in all gender-related experiences, such as guest registration, member profile, and account creation. As an RD you will see a non-binary option when adding a participant, in participant records, and the live results editor. The Results search now includes a filter for non-binary, and uploaded results can include the “X” designation instead of being limited to M/F.
Runner Profile #
For non-binary runners, their individual results will be displayed with “X[AGE]”. However, all gendered or division results can coexist within the same section. Male (M) or Female (F) results will retain their ranking, while “X” results will currently display DP: 0 & without a rank.
Introducing “Divisions” #
We have shifted from using the term “Gender” to categorize results and now use “Division” (also “Division Place” or “DP” in place of “Gender Place” “GP”). Each finisher in a race is scored according to the Division in which they compete. This isn’t so much a change in functionality as in verbiage. Today, the options will be Men (M), Women (W), and Non-binary (X). Accordingly, we’ve added an “X” filter option to Results pages if the non-binary division has been enabled.
Event Setup (For RDs) #
Race Directors now have the option to enable all three divisions (Men/Women/Non-binary) in the Event Setup options. We understand that not all events support three divisions, so this feature allows you to support a non-binary division if desired. The default setting remains Men/Women divisions. See this guide for setup details.
Registration #
During registration, regardless of the event settings, non-binary participants will still see the option to select a division. For events with three divisions enabled, the placeholder “X” will be displayed throughout the registration process and results.
Ranking & Division Placement #
Currently, non-binary runners will not receive a rank or division placement, as our system is designed to allocate them based on the male and female categories. We understand the importance of recognizing diverse identities and are actively working on future enhancements to address this.
Looking Ahead #
For details about upcoming improvements regarding non-binary on the platform, please refer to the article provided to learn more about other enhancements to expect in the coming months. Non-binary: Looking Ahead
Thank You,
UltraSignup Team
