Simone Biles And Olivia Dunne Headlined The Kentucky Derby — Why It Mattered

May 5, 2025

The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby doubled as a landmark moment for women’s gymnastics.

Simone Biles, the sport’s most decorated athlete, became the first gymnast to act as Grand Marshal. Biles was the second female athlete to hold the title after Laila Ali received the honor in 2018. As Grand Marshal, Biles led the customary “Riders Up” command to initiate the running of the 151st Kentucky Derby.

Former NCAA gymnast and social media sensation Olivia Dunne was also involved. The LSU graduate student led the “Riders Up” command for the Kentucky Oaks, held one day before the Derby.

With Biles and Dunne calling both race starts, this year’s event marked the first time both callers were female athletes (Ali received both responsibilities in 2018). It was also the first time that both callers were gymnasts. Forbes