Usain Bolt Awarded IAAF 2011 "Athlete of the Year"

On paper, Usain Bolt’s 2011 Track and Field season may resemble previous seasons – another world record in the 4x100 meter relay, the year’s fastest times in the 100 and 200 meter dashes, and two more world titles taken home to Jamaica. But unlike in previous campaigns, this year, Usain Bolt was challenged by more than just the runners racing against him. Having to recover from injury and rebound from a disqualification in the 100meter Track & Field World Championship Final in Daegu, 2011 proved to be a true test of character and determination for Bolt. This test, Usain Bolt passed with flying colors and was once again honored by IAAF with the “Athlete of the Year” award.

Previously named “Athlete of the Year” by the IAAF in both 2008 and 2009, this year’s triumph ties the record for the most times a single athlete has received this honor. Reflecting on the year and his latest achievement, Bolt shared, “There were some really close races. I really had to push myself – there were some ups and downs throughout the season. For me this one [award] means a lot.”

Given his remarkable success in 2011, we hope you’ll join us in congratulating Usain Bolt for this outstanding honor. Feel free to share your own kind words in the comment box below or through our networks on Facebook and Twitter.