The Editor, Sir:

As far as I am aware, Mr Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has never visited Jamaica and, if he has, then I apologise.

However, I would suggest that he visits our island, because I think if he had, his remarks about Usain Bolt might not have been made.

At no point during or after the Olympic 100 metres did Usain Bolt disrespect any athlete or official; actually, the only comment anyone made after watching the record-breaking event was, why didn't he run through the tape and totally smash the world record?

Years of sacrifice

Usain's celebration was borne out of many years of sacrifice to achieve his ultimate dream of winning an Olympic gold medal, not just for himself, but for his country. So, it's quite surprising to most people that Mr Rogge has found it disrespectful, but I am not sure to whom he is being disrespectful.

Usain chose to express his feelings that came natural to him at the time. It's not in Mr Rogge's remit as IOC president, nor does he have the prerogative to tell Usain how to display his feelings, especially when his competitors were equally as elated as Usain.

The IOC president's statement came across as disparaging, autocratic and downright rude.

Maybe, Mr Rogge, if you come to Jamaica, you might learn the 'Nuh Linga' dance as well. I doubt it though.

I am, etc.,

VERNON SPENCER

spenvuk@yahoo.co.uk

London