From Iowa to Rio: Simpson’s journey to Olympic Games began in Iowa
"People ask about her all the time and we have so many friends who are following her."
By Andrew Logue, The Des Moines Register
A poster-sized photo of Jenny Simpson hangs in her grandfather’s home office.
Her grandmother keeps the neighbors in Spencer, Iowa, updated on Simpson’s progress as an elite middle-distance runner.
And when Robert & Delores Barringer tune in to watch the Olympic 1500 meters — an event no American female has ever medaled in — they’ll celebrate every lap their granddaughter takes around the track.
“We’re really thrilled about it,” Delores said. “And you know what, it’s made us kind of famous right here in our town. People ask about her all the time and we have so many friends who are following her.
“It’s just been a wonderful experience.”
Jenny (Barringer) Simpson was born in Webster City, but her strongest ties to Iowa are family.
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