Eight-time Olympic Gold Medalist Usain Bolt continues to rack up the accolades even in retirement, after being bestowed with an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Brunel University on Wednesday.
The London based University shared news of conferring of the Doctorate honor to the Jamaican as part of the graduation ceremony on their website this morning.
Dr. Bolt who has the record for both 100 and 200 meters, was welcomed to the stage by Prof Costas Karageorghis, Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Brunel.
Speaking via video from chat Jamaica, Bolt said: “I want to thank Brunel University for this honorary degree, I really appreciate it.
The Triple- Olympic champion also took the time share his encouragement to the graduating class of the Brunel to also never limit their potential and never lament on failure but to be motivated to succeed at the next attempt.
“I want to say to the graduates, hard work does pay off, just remember that the road won’t be easy, there will be ups and downs, and you will fail. But always remember, learn from your failure and try again. Never give up on your dream, because as a young man I never knew I’d be this great. Always work hard, dedicate yourself, and remember, anything is possible, don’t take limits.”
The legendary sprinter trained at Brunel several times during his career, including in the lead-up to the 2012 London Olympics, where he further cemented his name in history as the first man to successfully defend his double sprint titles. He also bagged unprecedent double triple gold medal with two Olympic records on the process.
Speaking after the event, professor Karageorghis the University’s prided in recognizing the Jamaican for contributions both on and off the track; “It’s been a delight to welcome Usain back to Brunel to recognize his great achievements, not only on the track, but in promoting sport and a positive attitude towards life” as per Brunel University.
“As a university, we’re immensely proud to have played even a small part in his journey to greatness, and I’m sure Usain knows he’s welcomed back any time!” he added.
This is the second such Honor the Sprint King has received from a territory institution.
Bolt was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree by the University of the West Indies Mona in 2011 for “athletic prowess” and his “contribution to regional advancement.”
Bolt has been involved in several Philanthropic activities before and since his retirement in 2017, through his Usain Bolt Foundation which has among many charitable activities, provided resources for several early childhood institutions in the rural areas.
Also most using his celebrity in the recently hosted UNICEF charity football games to help raise money for underserved and marginalized children globally.
