Usain Bolt with Ricky Simms and Patsy McGonagle.
BY KATE HEANEY
THE fastest man on earth is coming to Donegal. Triple Triple Olympic Gold medalist Usain Bolt, has said he is looking forward to coming to the county.
The Jamaican may officially open the new Finn Valley AC all-weather blue track, the first of its kind in Ireland.
Speaking in London as Olympics 2012 came to a close, Bolt said he was looking forward to coming to Donegal. “It’s something I’ve been asking Ricky about, and perhaps I can make it next season.”
Last Christmas Bolt recorded a video message for the Stranorlar club’s annual awards, promising he would visit as soon as he could.
Bolt, has strong connections with the county through the sports management company who represent him. It is owned by Milford native, Ricky Simms. Raphoe woman, Grainne O’Dea, is the Athlete’s Representative at Simm’s Pace Sports Management who also represent double gold winner Mo Farah, who has already visited the county.
Ireland athletics team manager and Chairman at Finn Valley AC, Patsy McGonagle, said the Lightening Bolt’s visit to the county would “encourage a generation of Irish athletes”.
Speaking about Usain Bolt coming to open the new track Mr McGonagle said everything is now in place for that to happen.
“We’ve arranged a private jet and we can hopefully bring Usain and Ricky to Donegal from London when things settle down.
“He’s facing a huge demand on his time at the moment, but I’ve spoken to Usain and Ricky and they want to make it happen. The London Games were magnificent for all the right reasons, and they will help athletes in Ireland.
“I think a visit to Donegal with the fastest man in the world as a guest of Finn Valley Athletics Club will be an inspiration for another generation of Irish athletes,” Mr McGonagle added.