Simone Biles Turns Heads at the Kentucky Derby

In the days leading up to the Kentucky Derby, American singer Grace Potter admitted the national anthem was one of the most challenging songs to sing. 

"It's one of the most challenging vocal songs to sing. That's why so many people botch it pretty darn good. And when I hear it in its finest form, it's usually instrumental, you know, it's no one singing it because it is a gorgeous piece of music, but the vocalization of it is challenging," she told Southern Living.

"It's a little bit like playing the bagpipes, which I did do as a young person. There's just these points in the dynamics where your voice is being asked to do something that would be better performed by an instrument. But I love a good challenge. And, you know, this is as far outside of the box for me as a rock and roll singer as I could go. But, I don't know, life is too short not to try everything at least once, twice if I like it, you know?"

Unfortunately for her, the challenge was witnessed on the national stage as she struggled with her rendition. While Potter didn't exactly execute how she would have liked, seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles couldn't say the same.

She delivered a flawless Riders Up monologue to get the race going.

A beautiful Riders Up from Simone Biles. #KyDerby pic.twitter.com/B6uS44qCkV

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) May 3, 2025

Fans noted the Olympic superstar looked like a natural in her new job at the Kentucky Derby on Saturday night.

"This is how it's done," one fan said.

"goat in my city looking stunning," offered another.

"Love this for her we should have more Simone Biles on TV," added a third.

"No disrespect to Livvy yesterday but there’s levels to gymnasts doing the riders up at the Derby," joked another, calling out Olivia Dunne.

Biles and the rest of the 150,000 spectators at the event witnessed Sovereignty get the win over Journalism.

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