African Sports Monthly Vol I. Issue II February 2018 | Page 68

ASM: How much pressure do you feel as one that carries not just the nation of Jamaica’s expectations but the
whole world as a well admired and loved athlete?
Usain Bolt: I tend not to pressure myself but I am well aware of the expectations of my own country, Jamaica
and the rest of the world. I take it in good faith and do all I can to put on a great show for my fans.
ASM: We understand you relish Yam and fried plantains and you know in Africa we have what we call
pounded yam or Foofoo and these are foods that are full of carbohydrates and lots of starch which translates
to lots of energy, would you say some of your natural strength that you use in your sprinting comes from this
high energy food?
Usain Bolt: I pretty much have a balanced diet which includes fruits, vegetables, rice and peas and pork,
chicken, while for breakfast I will have a choice of liver and yam, dumplings and banana. My parish where I am
from in Jamaica, Trelawny, is famous for yam and people always think Yam is what makes me run fast. I have
developed into a great athlete and a lot of it is my talent mixed with the technical preparation. My coach Glen
Mills insists that I eat properly and it works.
ASM: Would you love to try some African foods which are very similar to Jamaican foods if the opportunity
presented itself?