“If I get to be a legend, I’ve achieved my goal.” Well, anyone with 8 Olympic gold medals, 11 World Championships gold, and the tag of ‘Fastest Man on the Planet‘ can be safely called a legend. And so is Usain Bolt. Starting with a World Cup silver in 2006, Bolt justified his name by striking the track and field realm like thunder. His indisputable reign of dominance continued for more than 8 years, shattering almost every record. 

An avid Manchester United fan, Usain Bolt used to spend his time playing cricket in the Caribbean. It was not until his cricket coach, who noticed his knack for speed, advised him to try the tracks that Bolt switched to sprinting. While we should all be thankful to Bolt’s childhood coach for his suggestion, there are two other important people the world needs to thank for the athlete that the Jamaican turned out to be. It’s Usain Bolt’s parents. Here’s everything that you need to know about them. 

Who are Usain Bolt’s parents? 

Usain Bolt was born to Jennifer and Wellesley Bolt on August 21, 1986, in Jamaica. He did not have a lavish childhood. His parents had a local grocery store that met the needs of the family every month. A young Usain, along with his brother Sadiki and sister Sherine, spent his time playing in the fields. As per Bolt’s recollection, he was always fascinated by sports and did not think of anything else. 

Bolt’s sprinting prowess first came to the forefront when he participated in a competition at Waldensia Primary School. Running in the 100m discipline, he outran his opponents to become the fastest runner in his school. By the time he was admitted to the William Knibb Memorial High School, Bolt was seriously considering track and field as a career option. 

Looking at his incredible potential, former Olympian Pablo McNeil took up the responsibility of coaching him. However, it was his parents who helped Bolt keep a calm head and achieve unprecedented success. After all, he is a self-proclaimed ‘mama’s boy’. 

The fastest man alive calls himself a ‘momma’s boy’ 

Usain Bolt detailed how his parents always supported him. Speaking about his mother in particular, the legendary sprinter became very emotional. “The only thing that can make me cry is my mum. If I disappoint her or upset her or we’re not speaking, or something goes wrong, then I cry. A momma’s boy,” Bolt said back in 2021.

The 37-year-old expressed his appreciation for his parents by mentioning that they always urged him to work hard and strive for greatness. Bolt’s mother also revealed how she helped him keep his calm when things were difficult. “We say things that will make him laugh, I tell him just stay focused, remember God, remember to pray, and read your Bible,” Jennifer said in an interview.

With blessings from his parents, Usain Bolt was headed to only one destination- Greatness.