‘I Am Bolt’ A Boost For Brand Jamaica, Says PM

Kingston (Jamaica): Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hailed 'I Am Bolt', the film documenting the life and successes of track and field icon Usain Bolt, as a big hit for Brand Jamaica.

"Usain Bolt is now Jamaica's biggest ambassador. His personality, his ability to draw people to him (and) his showmanship have really given a boost to Brand Jamaica," Holness said.

Holness was speaking to reporters at the Caribbean premiere of the film at the National Indoor Sports Centre here. Holness praised the triple Olympic champion and world record holder for his achievements and contributions to the sport of track and field.

"His achievements on the field, tied with his personality and being able to do this while remaining clean (of performance-enhancing drugs), puts him way above the rest, and he is truly not just a Jamaican hero, but a global hero," he said.

Andrew Holness

Usain Bolt is now Jamaica’s biggest ambassador. His personality, his ability to draw people to him (and) his showmanship have really given a boost to Brand Jamaica

"(Usain) is a national treasure, an asset for us and a great ambassador, but he is also a great representation of what we can do as humans by working very hard, being committed and maintaining principles," he added.

Holness also said the government is looking to meet with Bolt to discuss ways in which his popularity and contributions can be further leveraged in line with the push for economic growth.

'I Am Bolt' looks at the legacy of the fastest man alive and documents his rise to dominance, featuring interviews with his coach, manager, agent, colleagues and family.

Bolt has won nine Olympic gold medals and holds the record for the fastest 100 metre and 200m sprint events.

IANS