The Tribune

THE world’s fastest man has been caught on canvas by the Celebrity Artist.

Usain Bolt, the Olympic and world sprint champion and world record holder at 100m and 200m, was delighted to be presented with a portrait by Jamaal Rolle during his visit to the Bahamas for the IAAF World Relays at the weekend.

At a special luncheon on Monday at Super Club Breezes, Cable Beach, Mr Rolle was joined by the Prime Minister, Perry Christie, in giving the Jamaican athlete a lifesize 24in x 36in pastel portrait, a gift on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism.

Smiling, Mr Bolt said: “Out of all the many pictures I have seen of myself, this is the one I really liked best. I am having a good time here in the Bahamas and I really like coming to visit the Bahamas.”

Mr Rolle, who is also The Tribune’s cartoonist, added: “I liked his reaction to the portrait, whereas he was excited by the portrait when it was revealed. I appreciated his comments, for it is always a humbling experience to have my work appreciated. It is always a great experience to partner with the Ministry of Tourism and my country to showcase our talents and gratitude for great persons and visitors to our shoreline.”

In addition to Mr Christie, the lunch was attended by his wife, Bernadette, Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis and his wife, Anne Marie, Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe, Permanent Secretary of Tourism Harrison Thompson, Franklyn Wilson, the Director General of Tourism, Joy Ann Jibrilu and the owner of Super Club Breezes, John Issa.