Usain Bolt Donates $2 Million to William Knibb Track Team Ahead of Champs

TRELAWNY, Jamaica – Sprint legend Usain Bolt has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his alma mater, William Knibb Memorial High School, with a substantial $2 million donation to support the school’s track and field team at the upcoming ISSA Boys and Girls Athletics Championships (Champs).

Principal Linvern Wright revealed that the generous contribution, received two weeks ago, will cover crucial expenses such as housing, food, and transportation for the growing team, which now boasts over 50 athletes. This year’s Champs is scheduled to take place from March 25th to 29th.

Despite facing personal financial challenges, notably related to the Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL) fraud scandal, Bolt remained steadfast in his pledge to support the school. “One of the things that he has said, he said, ‘Principal, no matter what is happening, what you hear happening out there to me, I am still committed to my school. I’m still committed to contributing to the school. Whatever is happening to me, whatever I am missing right now, is not going to affect the commitment I made to the school of $2 million for Champs,'” Wright shared during a school gathering.

Wright expressed immense gratitude for Bolt’s continued support, highlighting the significance of the donation in ensuring the students’ success at the prestigious event. “So this year we’re going to Champs. We want to give a round of applause for that,” he announced.

Bolt has a long history of supporting William Knibb’s athletics program. In 2012, he secured a bus for the school, and he consistently provides gear through his sponsor, Puma. During a visit in October 2022, he increased his annual contribution from $500,000 to $2 million.

“Then we never had many persons going to Champs. Now our team is over 50 strong. And so that is a significant help in terms of housing, in terms of food, and in terms of transportation,” Wright explained.

The principal commended Bolt’s resilience in the face of adversity, stating, “I am particularly appreciative, and the community is particularly appreciative because we know the difficulties he has been through with this SSL thing. And I think that what it points to is a commitment that is even beyond any kind of adversity he may be going through. And I think that we appreciate it more because of that.”

Wright encouraged the athletes to honor Bolt’s generosity with strong performances at Champs. “What I hope is that the young people will show their appreciation by medalling because I’m sure he will be proud to know that his school medals on his behalf and on his alma mater’s behalf,” he said.

The William Knibb team is optimistic about their chances, with Wright expressing confidence in their ability to secure medals in several events, including the relays and the 200-meter class two. “Well, I think the boys have done well, I think, in the 4×4, but we expect to medal in the relays. We have, I think we have the 200-metre class two champion, and I hope those persons are able to come through,” Wright said.