Throughout his illustrious career in track and field, Bolt has won eight Olympic gold medals in the sprints (100 meter and 200 meter dashes) and the relays (4 x 100), as well as 11 gold medals at the World Championships level. He is affectionately known as “Lightning Bolt,” and rightfully so. “I am proud of all my medals in the Olympic Games and the World Track and Field Championships,” he said.
Bolt holds the world records in the 100 meter and 200 meter dashes, with such times as 9.58 seconds and 19.19 seconds respectively, thus making his the fastest human in the world.
When asked what motivates him each day, Bolt shared that “Every day is a chance to do something better than the day before.”
Regarding his plans for the future (now that he is a retired sprinter), he said, “I have a lot more time to get more involved in things I was unable to spend time on over the past years such as my business interests and the Usain Bolt Foundation. I will continue to be busy working for my commercial partners, and will probably play different sports and accept more television opportunities.”
Bolt noted that he stays connected with his fans by being active on his social media. “I will be travelling the world over the next years getting to meet fans,” he said.
For aspiring sprinters and track and field athletes, Bolt’s advice is as follows: “Work hard, and get good advice. Everyone competing at the top has talent but talent alone will not make a Champion.”
On the digital transformation of track and field, Bolt said, “I don’t think technology has changed track and field all that much. Track and field is about who can run, jump or throw the fastest, longest or highest. While the running kit and running surfaces have improved, it is ultimately mano a mano.”
Bolt generally uses technology to help him communicate with people, as well as for entertainment purposes. “I watch a lot of sports and movies, play video games and keep in touch with friends and family.”
When asked to look back and reflect on a rear-view mirror over the last 10 years, Bolt acknowledged that it afforded him the privilege to travel the world, where he met a lot of people, all while doing a sport that he loves. “The main thing I enjoy is putting smiles on people’s faces,” he said.
The word “success” for Bolt has many different meanings. “On the track, it was winning. As I enter the next phase of my career, it could be helping people less fortunate, inspiring the next generation, and being successful in business. For me, success is being happy and enjoying life.”
For his dedicated fans and followers, Bolt expressed his sincere gratitude. “Thanks for all the support over the years. The fans are the most important people for me, and I will certainly miss the thrill of competing in front of full stadiums,” he concluded.
To learn more about acclaimed Olympian and world record holder Usain Bolt, check out his Facebook page and follow him on Twitter.
For more information on his foundation, the Usain Bolt Foundation, check out its official homepage.
