The Legacy of Bolt
Sportshour speaks to Usain Bolt's best friend and people, whose lives have been changed by the Jamaican record holder and we investigate athletics issues with nationality
Bolt's best friend
Nugent Walker or NJ, as he’s known has been Usain Bolt’s best friend since primary school and manager since 2010. Despite being a ‘monster on the track’, NJ says Bolt is a bit of a dominos geek off it. What stands out from the interview is NJ is extremely proud watching his friend dominate the track. We could hear Usain in the background whilst we were talking to Nugent. He wasn’t able to talk; I think he has a race this week.
Bolt changed my life
Robyn Williams caught a pair of Bolt’s running spikes at the 2016 Anniversary Games. She says having the spikes inspired her to continue her athletics training. George Hoy was a games changer at the 2012 Olympics and managed to walk away with Bolt’s hat, after carrying his kit in the 200 metre heats. The Londoner says the conversation helped him apply and complete his university studies and gain confidence. Finally, a video of Dionne Hansey celebrating Bolt’s victory in the 200 metres went viral around the world. She says Bolt has been an important person in her life and the history of Jamaica.
Athletics nationality problem
Jak Ali Harvey is a Jamaican born athlete, who runs for Turkey. He says he changed nationalities because he received better support from Turkish athletics. Many African and Caribbean runners have decided to run for Middle Eastern countries in recent years. Professor Paul Michael Brannagan says athletes changing nationalities to represent Middle Eastern countries are helping improve the image of Middle Eastern governments.
Record bid devastation
Last week, we interviewed Sean Conway and discovered there was a three way battle for the world record for crossing Europe on a bicycle. Iain Findley was one of those cyclists, who was aiming to break the record. But the cycling coach had to abort his record attempt due to injury. Iain says the decision to quit has affected him mentally but believes Sean, who inspired him to take on the challenge, can break the record.
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Sportshour
Live Saturday morning global sports show with reports, debate and humour