- The father of the Olympic legend died after a long battle against a disease
- Bolt’s father’s father, Wellesley, quickly started flooding social media
The father of Usain Bolt, Wellesley, died at the age of 68.
The father of the Olympic legend died on Monday after a long battle against a disease, the local media confirmed.
Wellesley was often credited with the surprising success that his son, Usain, found in his career – after winning eight Olympic gold medals before retiring.
Bolt would have had a close relationship with his father, who was often seen celebrating with the star of the Jamaican song after his races.
Far from the track, Wellesley runs a small grocery store at Sherwood Content, Jamaica, since 2017.
He leaves behind his children Usain, Sadiki and Christine Bolt-Hylton.
The father of Usain Bolt, Wellesley (right), died at the age of 68, local media confirmed on Monday
Wellesley (second of the right) had often been seen by celebrating the success of her son’s track
Tributes quickly started to flood for the father of the Jamaican sprint legend
Tributes quickly started to flood for the father of the sprint star. The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, wrote: “ I join each Jamaican to extend my deepest and sincere condolences to @usainbolt, his beloved mother Mme Jennifer Bolt and the whole Bolt family, after the death of their patriarch, Mr. Wellesley Bolt.
‘M. Bolt was the father of a global icon and a strong and calm force behind one of the greatest sons in Jamaica. His presence, support and advice helped shape a heritage that continues to inspire the world.
“Usain, we have all witnessed the deep love and the respect you have always shown for your family. You celebrated them with pride and, in doing so, you reminded us of the importance of the family in our own life.
“When you cry this great loss, the prayers and the support of an entire nation are with you. We cry with you, we stick to you and we honor the memory of your father by your side ”.
Bolt has not yet commented on the situation in his own social media.
Olivia Grange, member of the Parliament in Jamaica, added: “I offer my sincere condolences to Jennifer, Usain and to the rest of the Bolt family.
“It will be a difficult period, but I encourage them to be comforted by the memory of a very good father.
More to follow …
