At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a young Usain Bolt and Team Jamaica showcased dominance in track events. Bolt played a crucial role in helping Asafa Powell secure the world record in the 4x100m relay, highlighting remarkable teamwork and athleticism.
A clip from Bolt’s documentary ‘I Am Bolt,’ shared on TikTok by Sports Bibble Jamaica, offers insight into the sprinter’s focus during the men’s 4×100-meter relay and his emotions when passing the baton to Asafa Powell in the anchor leg.
Bolt recalled his teammate Michael Frater’s performance in the second leg, which prompted him to reconsider his strategy. He noted that despite Frater’s actual height of 5’6″, the pressure of the event made him appear as tall as 6’5″.
As Bolt prepared to receive the baton for the third leg, he remembered thinking:
“I’m like, ‘He’s coming so fast. Should I run off? Should I wait?’ I’m like, ‘Oh s***, oh s***!'”
However, the young athlete received the baton properly, making no mistakes and outstandingly running off his third leg.
Bolt’s impressive strides helped him maintain Team Jamaica’s lead, and he recounted the moment he passed over the baton to Powell in the anchor leg, screaming:
“Run, Asafa!”
The video then cuts to Powell, who recounted that Bolt’s words inspired him, giving him a “boost” that propelled him to run swiftly, finishing well ahead of the competition.
This way, Team Jamaica crossed the finish line in 37.10 seconds, securing the gold medal and setting a new world record in the category.
