“I am not the next Usain Bolt or Michael Phelps. I’m the first Simone Biles”
- Jonina Oskardottir
- Feb 13, 2021
- 2 min read
Often referred to as the “greatest gymnast of our generation,” the five-time all-around world champion, Simone Biles is a powerhouse. With two skills named after her, Simone’s athleticism is undeniable and she is a true inspiration to young gymnasts around the world. Her story started when she was adopted by her parents Ron and Nellie after spending time in foster care, along with her sister, Adria. Saying that she was an energetic child is an understatement, and she was known for always jumping and running around her home. During a field trip to Bannon’s Gymnastix and after she began imitating other gymnasts, her parents decided to put her in gymnastics as they recognized her natural affinity for the sport. Her talent was evident from a young age and through a combination of intense training and aptitude, she quickly became a force to be reckoned with.
Simone’s first national appearance was the Junior National Competition at the 2011 American Classic where she placed third overall. Her success did not stagnate and in the 2012 American Classic, she won first overall. Simone’s winning streak continued and she advanced her pursuit of becoming a world-renowned gymnast. Her success did not come effortlessly and she had some significant setbacks. During a competition in 2013, she fell off the beam and was pulled from the classics. Moreover, she had to leave public school so she could spend more hours training at the gym.
Naming her accomplishments would take up more space than I have on this page, but she became a household name after the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, where she swept the competition, winning gold medal after gold medal, helping her earn the title of the most decorated American gymnast of all time.
As a former gymnast myself, it was especially heartbreaking to hear the news about the abuse she endured at the hands of Larry Nassar. A doctor based out of Michigan State University who abused hundreds of other gymnasts throughout the years, including Simone. She bravely spoke about her experience and helped put him behind bars.
Simone’s story is one that continues to inspire many and will do so for years to come. Her indisputable talent, as well as her cheerful spirit, is admirable and she has kept it all through the adversity she has faced, and it makes me proud to know that she is the face of USA Gymnastics. As women, it’s crucial that we recognize and celebrate the successes of women in every field, athletics being no exception.
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