Jamaica’s Sports Minister, Olivia Grange, has provided an update on the long-awaited statue of Usain Bolt, reassuring the public that the project is nearing completion despite facing delays. The statue, which is set to be erected at the historic Water Square in Falmouth, Trelawny, has been a subject of anticipation for years, with several setbacks pushing back its completion date.
Minister Grange explained that the delays were beyond the control of her ministry. The project required specific resources, some of which had to be sourced from overseas, and the shipping process took longer than expected. Additionally, the fountain where the statue will be installed needed significant renovations. Some parts of the fountain, crucial for its restoration, were not available in Jamaica, necessitating the procurement of materials from abroad. These unforeseen challenges resulted in a longer timeline than originally planned.
Despite these obstacles, Grange emphasized that progress is now being made. She highlighted the collaboration between the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Trelawny Municipal Corporation, both of which are working together to complete the fountain and prepare it for the statue’s installation. Grange also visited the National Stadium with her team to inspect the statue, confirming that the measurements for the base had been finalized. The statue is now ready to be moved to Water Square for installation, though Grange refrained from providing a specific date for its unveiling.
The statue of Bolt, who was born in Trelawny, is a long-overdue tribute to the sprinting legend, who has become an icon of Jamaican and global athletics. Bolt’s extraordinary achievements include holding the world records in the 100m and 200m, as well as claiming eight Olympic gold medals and 11 World Championship golds. His unparalleled success has brought Jamaica to the forefront of global sprinting, making the statue a fitting honor for his contributions to the sport.
The renovated fountain, which will feature eight spouts and two storyboards, will serve as the backdrop for the statue. One of the storyboards will celebrate Usain Bolt’s legacy, while the other will depict the history of Water Square. These additions will further enrich the monument, ensuring that it not only honors Bolt’s accomplishments but also highlights the cultural and historical significance of the location.
While the delays have been frustrating for many, Grange assured the public that the project is now in its final stages. She acknowledged the public’s impatience but emphasized that some aspects of the project were simply beyond their control. The goal, according to Grange, is to complete the installation as soon as possible, but she cautioned against setting an exact timeline until all the final details are in place.
Usain Bolt’s statue will undoubtedly be a monumental symbol of his legacy, not only as one of the greatest sprinters in history but also as a national hero who has brought immense pride to Jamaica. The statue will serve as a lasting tribute to his achievements, ensuring that future generations will remember his contributions to the sport and to the country.
