Bolt on way to Games
THE world’s best known and loved track athlete, Usain Bolt, is heading to the Gold Coast for next year’s Commonwealth Games.
Bolt may not be competing on the Gold Coast after retiring from competition following the world championships in August, but his mere presence in the city during the Games is a coup for organisers.
The cult hero draws a massive audience wherever he goes and will ensure the eyes of the world are on the Coast during the Games from April 4-15 next year.
Negotiations with the eighttime Olympic gold medallist and his representatives have been going on for months.
But the Bulletin understands Bolt’s visit during the Games has been confirmed and the Jamaican legend will be on the Gold Coast, possibly in an ambassadorial role.
GOLDOC chairman Peter Beattie could not confirm Bolt’s visit but said organisers would be delighted if he was present.
“It’s a matter for others to announce but we’ve never made any secret of the fact that we really want him to come,” Beattie said.
“He’s an icon, not just for his sport but globally and we would be really delighted.
“Obviously Mark Peters, the CEO, has been involved in discussions over a period of time but announcements have to be made and that will be done at the appropriate time.
“We know he’s not competing but he’ll hopefully be here in another role and that will be great.”
Peters was more circumspect, saying only that talks were continuing.
“Discussions are continuing with his management around an involvement with GC2018 but there is no certainty that this will occur,” Peters said.
But take it as read the sprint great will be here next April.
As one of the most recognisable and popular sports figures in the world, Bolt’s presence will be great not only for the Coast but for the Games.
“It would just recognise the importance of the Commonwealth Games,” Beattie said of the prospect of Bolt being here for the Games.
HE (BOLT) IS AN ICON, NOT JUST FOR HIS SPORT BUT GLOBALLY GOLDOC CHAIRMAN PETER BEATTIE
“What it does is it says to the world that this is a great event.
“If he comes, he’ll get media across the Commonwealth. And we all know how important that is.
“Having him here on the Gold Coast would just add to the whole dynamic nature of the Games.
“He would be one of the most popular athletes, if not the most popular because he’s in great demand.
“And if he comes here, it would just be a sensational thing for the event. And he’s such a gentleman and the way he behaves and conducts himself that he’s inspirational.
“He really is one of those people that frankly, are unique. They are rare because they have their heart in the right place, they want to encourage sport, they’re just great for athletics worldwide, not just here.”