I don't know how many pictures Simone Biles will have this Olympics of herself smiling with medals, but this momnt that I captured on screen will be the picture I remember in my heart.
In Tokyo, it was the vault where Simone experienced the 'twisties' which is a condition where an athlete under immense pressure gets disoriented mid-air. It is very dangerous and the pressure she was facing caused her to drop out of the Olympics for her own health and safety. The world was in shock. This eventually led to a 732 day lay-off from the sport.
To overcome the twisties, many gymnasts simplify their routine and build back up to the harder techniques. Simone has had to work as hard on her mental health over the last few years, as her physical capabilities to prepare for Paris.
Today, she stood there facing the vault again. This moment where she seemd to stare the vault down felt like she was sending a message, loud and clear: She would be the victor today.
She proceeded to do a Yurchenko double pike which will be named after her for the degree of difficulty, and for being the first one to perform it in international competition. She came back ON FIRE!!! It will be the 5th gymnastics move named after her.
What a woman of strength! What a woman of courage. What an incredible demonstration that we can overcome our fears. We can rise again. We are more than our struggle.
Thank you Simone for teaching us that mental challenges can be overcome. Thank you for teachng us that getting help - therapy or otherwise - creates strength. Thank you for listening to yourself and setting boundaries - even when the world was watching. Thank you for taking the time to take care of yourself. Thank you for having the fire and passion to make your comeback. Thank you for having the courage TO BE WHO YOU WERE BORN TO BE! The G.O.A.T. in women's gymnastics!!
You are an inspiration to the world and personally for me. Know that there was one little Utah mom with tears streaming down my face today watching you conquer the vault and conquer your fears. You are one of my greatest heroes!
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