The Editor, Sir:

I have read Jacques Rogge's comments, like many of us here at home and abroad have. We have also been hearing other voices making reference to 'Lightning' Bolt's celebration when he first struck gold, along with setting ablaze the track in world-record time in a flame that will be burning for a very long time to come. I feel compelled to share my thoughts on the matter.

Bolt has made Jamaica, his parents, the Jamaican diaspora and the world proud of his tremendous achievement. Great performances like these are rare.

We have been emancipating ourselves from mental slavery and 'what a bam bam' now that we are free from the shackles of physical and emotional restraints, notwith-standing some challenges yet to be overcome. No one has the right to tell a man who performs under the banner of pride and sacrifices of his entire country and ancestors to restrain his celebration.

The International Olympic Committee president needs to be educated. We just don't tap our hand and say 'Jolly good show, mate' or 'what a splendid chap'.

The Jamaican spirit

No. We knock pot covers; we jump in the streets and shout, giving things our all.

We don't remain 'downpressed' in ditches, because we know how to get out of depressed spaces by doing the 'Gully Creeper'.

We 'Willy Bounce' from adversities. We have One Love, one heart of Afro-Asian-Euro, or whatever other mix or skin tones we have.

We share the Jamaican spirit and can 'Whacky Dip' or 'Bogle' our way any where throughout the world to the top.

I wonder if Rogge has taken note of American athletes' mode of celebration in the past when they were winning these events?

When I think of comments from individuals who have much to learn about the magic of the Jamaican experience, I may just have to 'Fan Dem Off'.

But what I will say to Rogge in the meantime is, 'tek way yu self, mate' and 'Welcome to Jamrock'!

I am, etc.,

OMAR C. FRITH

hekau.amen@gmail.com

Manager

Stella Maris Foundation