Grange: Wellesley was the strength of Bolt family - Father of legendary sprinter passes

Minister of the Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has lauded Wellesley Bolt, father of Usain Bolt, described him as the strength of his family.

The senior Bolt, who, along with wife Jennifer has been ever present at meets where his son is competing, passed yesterday after battling what has been described as a "long bout of illness".

In paying homage, Grange issued a statement.

She said: "Nothing beats the unconditional love of a supportive family. Wellesley and his wife Jennifer were the picture of a loving and supportive family who were always there for their son, Usain.

"They were Usain's chief motivator, chief cheerleader, source of constant support, and stability.

"I found Mr Bolt to be an exceptional and passionate father who was invested in the success of his family. He was the strength of his family," Grange continued.

"Every success that Usain has achieved can be attributed to the confidence given to him by his ever-supportive mother and father.

"I offer my sincerest condolences to Jennifer, Usain and the rest of the Bolt family on the passing of Wellesley, or 'Gideon' as he was so affectionately called by friends and neighbours in Trelawny," she said.

"It is going to be a difficult time, but I encourage them to be comforted by the memory of a very good father."