New Delhi: The countdown to Season Six of the Ekamra Sports Literature Festival started with excitement building as the festival geared up to showcase some of the most compelling voices in sports literature. This year’s festival aimed to explore the transformative power of sports storytelling through engaging conversations with renowned athletes-turned-authors, analysts, and commentators.
As part of the festival, former Olympic silver medalist and multi-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist swimmer Sharon Davies sat down to discuss her latest book, Unfair Play: The Battle for Women’s Sport. In a candid and emotional conversation, Davies offered a glimpse into her motivation for writing the book and the broader implications of its themes.
The Struggles Behind the Pages: Sharon Davies’ Perspective
Davies, whose career spans over five decades, brings a wealth of experience and a nuanced understanding of the evolving dynamics of women’s sports. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “I’ve competed across three Olympics and worked as a BBC analyst for many more. Paris 2024 marked my 13th consecutive Olympic Games, and over these years, I’ve seen the uphill battle women face in securing fair treatment.”
Her book shines a spotlight on the persistent gender disparities in sports, highlighting issues such as unequal sponsorship and unsafe competition. “Women receive just 4% of the global sponsorship dollar, while men dominate with 96%. This glaring inequality is a testament to how far we still have to go,” Davies emphasized.
The Legacy of Doping and Its Impacts
A significant portion of Unfair Play examines the state-sponsored doping programs of the past, particularly the dominance of East German athletes during the 1970s and 1980s. Davies shared harrowing stories of competing against athletes who had been systematically doped with testosterone. “These young girls, through no fault of their own, were forced into programs that not only cheated competitors like me and my peers but also left them with severe lifelong health issues. Many of them became ill, and some even lost their lives due to the drugs they were given.”
Davies also criticized the lack of action by international governing bodies, such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which failed to address these injustices. “There were two sets of victims—athletes like myself, who were denied medals and opportunities, and the young East German girls, who were treated as tools in a larger political agenda,” she said.
The fall of the Berlin Wall brought some justice, with court cases and reparations, but Davies believes much more needs to be done to ensure such practices never resurface.
Fair Play in Modern Sports
While much of the book delves into historical injustices, Davies also addresses contemporary challenges in women’s sports. These include ensuring fair competition amid debates about inclusion and equity. She notes the importance of balancing progressive values with the need for a level playing field for female athletes.
Using a blend of personal anecdotes, scientific data, and historical analysis, Unfair Play explores the broader cultural and social issues that have shaped the narrative of women’s sports. “We must continue to fight for fairness, not just for today’s athletes but for future generations who dream of competing in an equitable environment,” she said.
Ekamra Sports Literature Festival: A Platform for Change
The Ekamra Sports Literature Festival has become a cornerstone event for sports enthusiasts and literary aficionados alike. This year, it was a vibrant platform for discussing critical issues, with authors like Sharon Davies leading the charge.
Festival organizers aim to bridge the gap between the worlds of sports and literature, bringing together voices that inspire, challenge, and provoke thought. In addition to Davies, the festival will feature authors from across the globe, whose works address themes ranging from resilience and perseverance to the socio-political impact of sports.
Excitement continues to grow among attendees eager to engage with the narratives that shape the world of sports. Davies’ book and her powerful message will undoubtedly serve as a highlight, urging the world to take a closer look at the ongoing fight for equality and justice in women’s athletics.
Final Thoughts
Season Six of the Ekamra Sports Literature Festival was more than just a celebration of sports writing—it’s a call to action. Through voices like Sharon Davies, the festival underscores the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and preserving the integrity of sports.
Davies’ Unfair Play is not just a book but a manifesto for change, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about sports and the stories behind the medals.
