Collegiate athlete Brie Clark got a huge reaction from Simone Biles after making history as the first NCAA gymnast to land the Biles I tumbling pass. Clark joined her fellow Clemson Women’s Gymnastics teammates on Friday night in a victory over Texas Woman’s University and the University of New Hampshire, becoming the first collegiate athlete to pull off a stunt named after a legend. 12 years after Biles first introduced the move, Clark, a redshirt junior, pulled off the Biles I with ease.
The Biles I is a floor skill that’s also known as a “double layout with a half twist.” To non-gymastics experts, any type of double flip seems to be impressive, but many professional and collegiate gymnasts pull off the double layout. It’s the addition of the “half twist” that made the move so legendary.
After breaking a record for NCAA gymnasts everywhere, Clark was met with praise from the very woman whose name inspired the skill: Simone Biles. The seven-time Olympic gold medalist shared the video of Clark pulling the Biles I on her Instagram Story with the caption, “I KNOW THAT’S RIGHT.”
Biles also commented under the video twice, first writing: “congrats 🎉🎉🎉🎉🤭🤭🤭🤭,” and then adding, “& closing out black history month! YES MA’AM 😮💨 iktr!!!!!!!”
Clemson Gymnastics also shared an adorable video of Clark being shown the comments Biles made, and the gymnast’s excited reaction. “Guess who commented?” says the person showing Clark the video. “Shut up!” Clark responded when she realized Biles saw the video. “Twice! She knows I exist.”Simone Biles, who has since become the most decorated gymnast of all time, first pulled off her now eponymous move in 2013 during the World Championships in Antwerp, Belgium. The double layout with a half twist would become one of five moves to be named after her in her expansive career. The 27-year-old athlete has yet to confirm whether or not she will return to the sport for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, but is still in the process of deciding.
The world of gymnastics is constantly evolving, and history was made once again when Brie Clark became the first college gymnast to successfully land the Biles I. This move, named after the legendary Simone Biles, is one of the most difficult and awe-inspiring skills in the sport. Naturally, fans and athletes alike were eager to hear Biles’ reaction to this monumental achievement. Let’s dive into how she responded and what this means for the future of gymnastics.
Who Is Brie Clark?
Brie Clark is a rising star in college gymnastics, known for her powerful performances and fearless approach to the sport. Competing at the NCAA level, she has been making waves with her impeccable technique and daring routines. Her recent accomplishment of landing the Biles I has catapulted her into the spotlight.
What Is the Biles I?
Understanding the Move
The Biles I is a jaw-dropping skill that consists of a double layout with a half twist, requiring immense strength, precision, and control. It’s one of the most challenging skills in gymnastics, making it a signature move of Simone Biles.
Why It’s So Difficult
- Requires exceptional airtime and body control
- Demands perfect timing to execute the twist
- Leaves no margin for error, as landing must be spot-on
Simone Biles’ Reaction to Brie Clark’s Achievement
When news broke that Brie Clark had landed the Biles I in an NCAA competition, Simone Biles took to social media to share her thoughts. Her reaction was a mix of excitement, pride, and admiration.
Biles’ Social Media Post
Biles tweeted, “This is INSANE!! So proud of Brie Clark for making history! Keep pushing the sport forward!”
What This Means for Gymnastics
Biles’ reaction underscores the importance of progress in gymnastics. Seeing another athlete master a move named after her shows how the sport continues to evolve and how new generations are pushing boundaries.
The Impact on College Gymnastics
Raising the Competitive Bar
Clark’s success is a game-changer for NCAA gymnastics. It demonstrates that collegiate athletes are capable of performing skills previously thought to be reserved for the elite international stage.
Inspiring Future Athletes
Brie Clark’s achievement serves as inspiration for young gymnasts aiming to reach new heights in the sport. It shows that hard work and dedication can lead to groundbreaking success.
How Difficult Is It to Perform the Biles I in College Gymnastics?
NCAA vs. Elite Gymnastics
- In elite gymnastics, athletes train under intense conditions with world-class coaching.
- NCAA gymnastics follows a structured format with scoring systems that often reward execution over difficulty.
- Landing a skill like the Biles I in college gymnastics proves that NCAA athletes are stepping up their game.
Training Required to Master the Biles I
To execute this move, gymnasts must train rigorously, focusing on:
- Core and leg strength
- Air awareness and twist control
- Sticking the landing with precision
What’s Next for Brie Clark?
Potential for an Olympic Future?
Clark’s ability to land such an elite skill puts her in the conversation for potential Olympic aspirations. If she continues to refine her skills, she could transition to the international stage.
Will More NCAA Athletes Attempt the Biles I?
Now that Clark has proven it’s possible, we may see more gymnasts attempting high-difficulty moves in collegiate competitions.
Simone Biles’ Influence on the Next Generation
Breaking Boundaries in Gymnastics
Biles has redefined what’s possible in gymnastics, and her influence continues to inspire gymnasts like Brie Clark to push the limits.
Encouraging Women in Sports
Beyond gymnastics, Biles’ support of young athletes helps empower women in sports, fostering a culture of encouragement and ambition.
Conclusion
Brie Clark’s historic moment in NCAA gymnastics is proof that the sport is evolving in incredible ways. With Simone Biles cheering her on, it’s clear that gymnastics is in good hands with the next generation of fearless athletes. Clark’s success opens the door for more gymnasts to push the envelope and take the sport to even greater heights.
