Speedy, but Disrespectful: IOC Chief

IOC chief criticizes sprinter's winning attitude
By Katherine Thompson,  Newser Staff
Posted Aug 21, 2008 8:34 AM CDT
Speedy, but Disrespectful: IOC Chief
Jamaica's Usain Bolt, right, is the fastest man in the world, but the head of the IOC thinks he could still improve in the arena of respectful competition.   (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Usain Bolt has reached the level of track great Jesse Owens, but the 22-year-old Jamaican needs to show more respect to fellow competitors, says the head of the IOC. Although Jacques Rogge expects more amazing feats from Bolt, whom he calls "another dimension in sprint," he censured the sprinter's antics in a meeting with reporters today.

"He still has to mature," Rogge said. "I would love him to show more respect to his competitors. He should learn that he should shake hands with competitors." Rogge, who participated in three Olympiads in yachting, was particularly upset with Bolt's "victory gestures" before he crossed the finish in the 100 meters. "I understand the joy,"  he told reporters. "He might have interpreted that in another way, but the way it was perceived is 'catch me if you can.' You don't do that."
(More Usain Bolt stories.)

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