Riley Gaines made her way to Marshall to speak at the 2025 Annual Saline County Lincoln Day Dinner, sharing her story to the more than 500 residents in attendance in the Martin Community Center.

Gaines was a member of the University of Kentucky Swim team and was a 12-time NCAA All-American before rising to prominence as a political activist, advocating against the inclusion of transgender women in women’s sports. Her interest in speaking out about this topic was sparked following the 2022 NCAA Women’s Swimming Championships, where University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas became the first openly trans women champion in the NCAA women’s division after winning the 500-yard freestyle event. Gaines and Thomas also tied for fifth place in the 200-yard NCAA freestyle championship. Gaines says her position isn’t built on hate, but rather protecting the opportunities of women.

Gaines was the keynote speaker at the event, sharing her story and encouraging young leaders to get involved with the issues that affect them everyday. She says that speaking to people is something she’s grown passionate about.

A Q-and-A followed Gaines’s speech. Community members were also able to meet with Gaines before and after the event.