Sprint legend Usain Bolt is mourning the loss of his father, Wellesley Bolt. Wellesley Bolt passed away at the age of 68 after battling an illness, the nature of which has not yet been disclosed. The heart-wrenching news of his death was confirmed on March 31.
The exact details of Wellesley Bolt’s passing are currently unclear. However, a report from Jamaica Observer confirmed that he had been facing health challenges for a long time. Usain Bolt has not yet commented publicly on his father’s passing.
Wellesley Bolt was a well-respected man. According to the news outlet, he spent 16 years working for the Jamaican Coffee Board. He later became a shopkeeper in Sherwood Content, Trelawny, where he operated a shop for 15 years. In 2017, he stepped away from the shop.
Based on the report, Wellesley Bolt was a strong and supportive figure for his son, who later became an eight-time Olympic champion and international sports legend.
In a 2022 interview, Usain Bolt spoke about his father and their bond. The sprint icon described his father as a disciplinarian. He also shared that despite his stern nature, they shared a close bond, particularly over their mutual love of sports.
Both his mother and father were very supportive throughout his career. The pair, Wellesley and his wife, Jennifer Bolt, were seen on several occasions proudly cheering for their son at international competitions.
Wellesley Bolt’s passing is a significant loss for the Bolt family. Words of comfort have been pouring in following the news of his death.
Many fans and supporters have expressed condolences to the Bolt family on social media. With the news of his passing quickly making the rounds, supporters are patiently awaiting a public statement from Usain Bolt. The family are likely grieving privately and taking their time to comment on the passing.