Kidsday interviews runner Usain Bolt
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Kidsday reporters talk with runner Usain Bolt
Photo credit: Newsday Photo/Pat Mullooly | Track star Usain Bolt with Kidsday reporters Kelly Burke, Diana Burke and Eric Burke
We met Usain Bolt, the
world’s fastest man, while he was in Manhattan recently. Usain holds the world’s record in the 100 and 200 meters.
When did you first realize how fast you really were?
When I was probably 13 or so. I was winning a lot. I was young, and I knew I was better than most of the guys.
Which race do you consider being your better accomplishment: Winning the gold medal in the Olympics, or breaking the record again in the 2009 world track championships?
For me, the first one, which] was 200 meters. That means a lot to me because it was the first time I broke the record, and I really worked hard to get that record. That meant a lot to me.
Have you ever had an injury that significantly affected your ability to race?
When I was 18, for the World Junior games, I got injured. My hamstring took me out for actually three seasons. I was up and down in track and field. I just worked hard; then I met my coach, Glen Mills. He found out what was the problem and we worked hard on it. The main problem was my back; I had to do a lot of back exercises to get my back stronger to make sure I didn’t get injured again.
What are some of your future goals?
The one big goal, for me, is to become a legend in the sport, and I’m really working hard on that. So for that to happen, I have to keep working year after year, keep winning, so that’s my big goal.
What race do you enjoy running more?
Definitely the 200 meters. It’s my favorite event. I’ve been training years and years for this event. So it’s definitely my favorite. It’s close to my heart. I love doing it.
Who has been your biggest motivator in the course of your career?
It’s always been my dad. He pushed me in track and field and told me to keep on, to stay focused.
Does the crowd ever help you?
Yes. The crowd plays a big part for me. I feed off the energy of the crowd. I like going places where there’s a lot of people and a lot of energy. The crowd helps, especially when you’re tight.
How did you come up with that pose at the end of the race when you win?
hat’s actually a dance in Jamaica: It’s called “To the World,” but I just put a little spin on it and made it my own. That’s how I came up with it.
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