By: Taren Vaughan
Usain Bolt left the world stunned at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China when he won his first gold medal in the men’s 200m, shattering the world record that Olympic great Michael Johnson held for years. Known as the fastest man alive, Bolt’s incredible speed has been deemed unreal and led spectators to pose the question: Could he pull it off again? Bolt’s back and hamstring problems were making people doubt that gold medals at these Games were within his reach.
But Bolt showed up at the 2012 Olympic Games very determined to amaze the crowd, and entertain them with his pre-race antics too, for a second time and defend his titles in both the men’s 100m and 200m events. Although his fellow teammate Yohan Blake came close to stealing his crown, Usain Bolt was once again victorious, bringing home the gold in both events for a second time straight. And down in history Bolt has gone as his recent wins have now made him the first man to capture repeat Olympic sprint titles in two events (100m and 200m), an accomplishment that he is most proud of:
“I did what I wanted. I came out of a rough season and I did what I had to do,” he said. “It’s what I came here to do. I’m now a legend, I’m also the greatest athlete to live. I am in the same category as Michael Johnson. I’m honoured. It’s all about Michael Johnson for me. I grew up watching him break world records. He’s a great athlete.” -Usain Bolt to National Post
Bolt’s athletic accolades have led him to be mentioned with track legend Carl Lewis. As many would think Bolt would be most honored to draw comparison to Lewis, he actually proceeded to call out Lewis instead for talking so negatively about runners and thought he was doing it for attention.
The silver and bronze medals went to Jamaica’s Yohan Blake and Warren Weir in the 200m, making Usain Bolt’s historic moment even that much more dope.
Although Team Jamaica snagged all three medals in the men’s 200-meter dash, the women of the United States are continuing to rack up medals in their events, Allyson Felix getting her first gold medal in the women’s 200m, Lashinda Demus claiming a silver medal in the 400m hurdles and Dawn Harper and Kellie Wells bringing home silver and bronze medals in the 100m hurdles.
As for Usain Bolt, this man truly has a speed like no other, not to mention he covers a number of feet with one stride. Insane.
This is honestly one amazing feat. Props!
Amazing!