Above: Usain Bolt
By Alexander Britell
Until proven otherwise, Jamaica’s Usain Bolt remains the fastest man on earth, holding the world record in the 100 metres, which he accomplished in Berlin in 2009 with a time of 9.58 seconds (topping his gold medal-winning mark at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing). Bolt, a native of Trelawny, found the time to slow down to tell Caribbean Journal about his preparations for London this summer, where he could seek four gold medals.
How is your training going right now?
Training is going well and I am getting ready to open my season on May 5 in Kingston.
How far do you have to go as far as training, if at all?
My coach Glen Mills oversees my programme and come May 5 he will take a closer look. Up to now training is good.
What is the greatest difference for you right now compared to where you were at this time in 2008?
Now I am the World and Olympic record holder looking to defend my titles in London. Back in 2008, I was getting ready to take on the world. What a difference a few years make? I am happy with where I am and I am looking forward to becoming a legend for track and field.
What is the biggest thing you’re working on to prepare for London?
I am just looking forward to successfully defending my titles – there are always areas my coach will want to improve on so we do that as a work in progress.
Your next race will be back home in Jamaica. What does that mean for you?
I am always happy to perform in front of a home crowd. Jamaica is a very special place.
What will you have to do for you to consider the Olympics a success?
If I win my titles I think that would be a great success.
Do you plan to set another new Olympic record?
I never go out to set records, if a record comes, it will be a bonus.
What are your plans for after the Games?
There may be a few events after, which my agent will confirm. I will do media as usual and then a well-needed vacation.