Bolt celebration draws rebuke from Olympic boss

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

BEIJING -- International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge said Thursday that Jamaica’s Usain Bolt disrespected his opponents by failing to acknowledge their attempts to congratulate him after he set world records here in the 100 and 200 meters.

In an interview with three news agencies, including the Associated Press, Rogge suggested that Bolt’s celebration after the race was excessive.

‘That’s not the way we perceive being a champion,’’ Rogge said.

‘I have no problem with him doing a show. I think he should show more respect for his competitors and shake hands, give a tap on the shoulder to the other ones immediately after the finish and not make gestures like the one he made in the 100 meters.’’

Bolt was so far ahead in the 100 meters that he began celebrating meters before he crossed the finish line, showing up his rivals.

‘I understand the joy,’’ Rogge said. ‘He might have interpreted that in another way, but the way it was perceived was, ‘Catch me if you can.’ You can’t do that. But he’ll learn. He’s still a young man.’

At the same time, Rogge expressed admiration for Bolt’s talent and achievements, comparing him as a sprinter to Jesse Owens.

The difference between Bolt and Owens and Carl Lewis is that they also won in the long jump.

-- Randy Harvey

Usain Bolt hangs onto his pair of golden sneakers, a big contributor to his golden runs. Photo by Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times