When Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, visited the LSU gymnastics facility on March 26, everything seemed to pause. The LSU Tigers were left starstruck as Biles, a seven-time Olympic medalist, casually walked into their Baton Rouge training center. This wasn’t a random appearance—she was there specifically to support her friend Zoe Miller, an LSU freshman and former teammate from their days at the World Champions Centre. During her visit, Biles shared hugs, advice, and her well-known warm energy, leaving the team inspired by her presence.
However, not everyone was able to be there for the special moment. Olivia Dunne, a major figure in NCAA gymnastics and a senior at LSU, was notably absent. She’s been sidelined since January due to an avulsion fracture in her kneecap. Although she couldn’t be there in person, a memorable meeting with Biles might still be in her near future.
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Dunne’s first encounter with Biles dates back to 2015 at the WOGA Classic. At just 12 years old, Dunne was ecstatic to meet the then-rising star Biles, snapping a photo alongside Biles, Olympic champion Nastia Liukin, and future LSU teammate Madison Rau. She even posted the picture with the caption: “Nastia, Simone, Maddie #wogaclassic2015.” A few years later, in 2018, she found herself training alongside Biles again at a National Team camp—this time as a more experienced gymnast, while Biles had already claimed four Olympic golds after her Rio 2016 dominance.
Now, fate is aligning again for the two gymnasts to share a historic moment—this time at one of America’s most iconic sporting events. Both Biles and Dunne will be part of the Kentucky Derby festivities, with each of them taking on the prestigious “Riders Up” call. Biles is set to deliver the command during the Derby’s main event on Saturday, May 3, while Dunne will do the honors the day before at the Kentucky Oaks.
This tradition, which began in 2012, involves a celebrity announcing the “Riders Up” cue—a signal for jockeys to mount their horses before the race. In doing so, Biles and Dunne will become the first gymnasts ever to take part in this high-profile moment, joining a list of past honorees that includes NFL stars, entertainment icons, and well-known figures like Baker Mayfield, Jack Harlow, and Martha Stewart.
Their participation adds a unique and groundbreaking twist to the Derby’s long-standing history. As millions tune in to NBC to watch the Derby and Oaks, Biles and Dunne will not only represent gymnastics on one of sport’s grandest stages but also elevate its visibility in an entirely new arena. The fusion of equestrian speed and athletic artistry promises to deliver a memorable spectacle, as these two powerhouse athletes bring grace, strength, and star power to the Kentucky Derby.