Usain Bolt’s Mom Says key to Keeping Him Calm After her Husband’s Death …

Usain Bolt’s Mom Says key to Keeping Him Calm After her Husband’s Death

 

In the quiet town of Sherwood Content, where Usain Bolt’s sprinting journey began, the family of the world’s fastest man is now facing a different kind of challenge — grieving the loss of Wellesley “Gideon” Bolt, Usain’s father. Amid the emotional weight of the moment, Bolt’s mother, Jennifer Bolt, says she is relying on the same tools she has always used to keep her son calm: faith, humor, and love.

Speaking publicly for the first time since Wellesley’s funeral, Jennifer said, “It’s not easy losing someone who’s been the rock of your family, but I know Usain. He carries a lot inside, and I’ve always known how to help him let go of the pressure — we talk, we laugh, and we pray.”

At the funeral service held at the Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church, Usain sat quietly beside his mother, often reaching for her hand. At one point, he was seen wiping her forehead, a tender reversal of roles. The eight-time Olympic gold medalist later stood up to address mourners and made a heartfelt promise: “Mom, I got you.” His words echoed throughout the church and across social media.

Jennifer, who was married to Wellesley for over 35 years, described her late husband as a “quiet, strong provider” and said she sees much of him in Usain. “He didn’t talk much, but he loved deeply. Usain got that quiet strength from his father.”

Now, as mother and son lean on each other in their shared grief, Jennifer says the focus remains on keeping their family grounded. “The same way I kept Usain calm before his races is the same way I keep him calm now — by not letting the weight of things crush him. I make him laugh. I remind him of God’s goodness. I let him cry when he needs to.”

Over the years, Jennifer has spoken often about the importance of keeping Usain mentally strong, especially under pressure. From his teenage days competing at the World Junior Championships to his historic Olympic runs, she has remained a constant source of emotional support. Now, that strength is helping the entire family cope.

“He’s hurting,” she admitted. “But Usain has always been resilient. He’s turning his pain into strength, just like he did on the track.”

Jennifer also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the Jamaican public and fans worldwide. “The love we’ve received has helped us more than words can say.

A Mother’s Steady Hand

Jennifer Bolt’s words reflect not just the grief of losing a husband, but the resilience of a mother determined to keep her son grounded in the face of loss. Through prayer, humor, and unwavering love, she continues to be the quiet force behind one of the greatest athletes of all time — helping him navigate life’s hardest races, even off the track.