USAIN BOLT HONOURED AS GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS ICON ON 70TH ANNIVERSARY

By: Gyang Dakwo

Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt has been officially named a Guinness World Records ICON as part of the organisation’s 70th anniversary celebrations.

Bolt, who is widely known as the greatest sprinter of all time, holds several incredible records. He is most famous for his lightning-fast 100 metres time of 9.58 seconds, making him the fastest man in history.

Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday travelled to meet Bolt in person to present the special ICON certificate. During their meeting, Glenday spoke with Bolt about his amazing achievements and also surprised him with 15 official Guinness World Records certificates. Each one represents a different world record title he has earned over the years.

Bolt still holds the world records for the 150 metres, which he ran in 14.35 seconds, and the 200 metres, which he completed in 19.19 seconds. Both records were set in 2009 and have never been beaten.

Throughout his career, Bolt dominated the sport of track and field. He became the only athlete in Olympic history to win three straight gold medals in the 100 metres at the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Games.

Speaking about the honour, Glenday said, “Usain Bolt, for me, is the epitome of a Guinness World Records ICON. The great joy of this job is meeting these fundamental people, the world’s tallest and shortest, this amazing array of people. And the shorter the record title, the more amazing, I think, the record is, so fastest human, wow. It is Usain Bolt!”

Receiving the golden ICON certificate, Bolt shared how proud he was of the recognition.

“I am honoured to be a part of the greats, and always happy to be recognised by the Guinness World Records book. For years I have been in there and I have finally got all the certificates, which are going to look good in my house,” he said. “I am happy to be an ICON.”

Bolt also offered some advice to young athletes and fans. “There will be ups and downs, but you have to be focused. Having a great team of people around you also, to support you is very important. But it is mainly just hard work and dedication.”

Usain Bolt’s legacy continues to inspire millions around the world, and this ICON honour is yet another reminder of his extraordinary place in sports history.