Powell has described how Team Jamaica was undefeated for almost ten years thanks to his friendship with Usain Bolt.

Asafa Powell, a legendary sprinter from Jamaica, has shared how his relationship with Usain Bolt set the stage for Team Jamaica to dominate the sprint for almost ten years.

Powell, who came from a generation of athletes with extremely high expectations, talked about how the team’s togetherness fostered success, particularly from 2008 to 2016.

In the men’s division, Jamaican sprinters dominated the 100-, 200-, and 4×100-meter relay events throughout this time. Even American sprinter Justin Gatlin conceded that the Jamaican team’s camaraderie provided them with an extra edge. Powell clarified that his friendship with Bolt created a positive environment that benefited upcoming sprinters.

“I recall being in Paris in 2003. Even though Usain was approximately fifteen years old, we used to hang around and do bicycle rides across the hamlet every day. On the Gatlin podcast, Powell stated, “It was cool. I didn’t know what it was at the time.

“We shared certain things. We bonded on our shared love of partying and having a good time. It was not perceived as a rivalry by any of the sportsmen that followed.

“They all said, ‘Yo.'” We wanted to stay in Jamaica because of you, Asafa, and you alone inspired us to pursue track and field. That was what bonded us Jamaicans together—more respect than rivalry. Since then, we have only ever laughed and joked with each other everytime we see each other.

The first sprint star was Powell, but Bolt’s ascent to fame stole the show. Powell’s powerful brand continued to have an impact in spite of this, which occasionally caused confusion between the two sportsmen.

Asafa Powell on the 100-meter event in which he unintentionally set a world mark: “That’s the only record I regret.”

People became aware that Usain was there and began to search for him at that point. However, anytime Usain leaves, the passersby confuse him for me. “Asafa! There’s Asafa!” they would exclaim, Powell said.

“Usain and I still only joke around with each other whenever we see each other or speak to each other.”

Powell and Bolt’s close relationship is a testament to the respect and solidarity that have been essential to Jamaica’s sprinting success, leaving a legacy that will continue to motivate athletes in the future.