Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens are making their first Christmas as a married couple a moment to cherish. Despite their busy lives-Owens is preparing for a game with the Chicago Bears against the Seattle Seahawks the day after Christmas-the two will spend the holiday together in Chicago. Biles expressed excitement about their plans, noting, “It’ll be really nice to have our first Christmas alone together.”
This marks a significant change for the gymnast, who traditionally spent the holiday with her family. While the adjustment may be bittersweet, it underscores the couple’s commitment to nurturing their relationship amidst demanding schedules.
Christmas has always held a special place in Simone’s heart, thanks to her father, Ronald Biles. He went above and beyond to make her holiday wishes come true, though he often did so on his own practical terms. One year, young Simone persistently asked for a dog. Ronald initially tried to sidestep the request by gifting giant stuffed animals. But Simone’s determination eventually paid off.
She recalls in her memoir Courage to Soar how her father made a deal: she could get a dog if she qualified for the Western championship in gymnastics. Fueled by her Christmas wish, Simone delivered a stellar performance, clinching first place at regionals. True to his word, Ronald took her to pick out a German shepherd, who became a beloved family member. This story exemplifies Simone’s drive and resilience, traits that have propelled her to Olympic greatness.
Leave a Reply