U-turn on gender pay parity

Six years down the line, I have an eighteen-month-old daughter (and another daughter on the way) and I’m having serious doubts about the nexus between money and gender. Why shouldn’t my daughter aspire to be a professional sportsperson and be paid the same total package as anyone else doing the same? Thankfully, others have been fighting for pay parity for years, and we are starting to see some successes.

On International Women’s Day, I am celebrating those in sport who have contributed to myth-busting about competing on equal terms. 

Just recently, the US Women Soccer Players Association won a $24 million settlement for discrimination and unequal pay after six years in litigation. At last year’s Cheltenham festival, Rachael Blackmore was the first of her gender to be the top rider – and, the following month, became the first female jockey to win the Grand National. Gabby Logan, Alex Scott, Clare Balding and Alison Mitchell are flying the flag to inspire for the next generation of female sports pundits. But the last word has to go to veteran equal pay fighter, Billy Jean King:

"Everyone thinks women should be thrilled when we get crumbs, and I want women to have the cake, the icing and the cherry on top, too."

So do I. Happy International Women’s Day!