County News: Sussex student jets half-way around the world to scoop interview with Usain Bolt

Dylan, who graduates from the University of Brighton’s Eastbourne campus this year, had no idea if he would succeed but was determined to try anything in furtherance of his dissertation.

He flew to Jamaica in hot pursuit of the fastest man alive, and his persistence paid off. He tracked down Bolt during a training session, grabbed a brief interview, and then gleaned insights into the world and Olympic sprint champion’s life by speaking with Bolt’s father Wellesley.

Dylan hopes to get his article published in an international magazine or national newspaper as he strives for a career in sports journalism – he already has an interview lined up with a TV channel.

He said, “I am proud of what I achieved – it was a challenge but it turned out to be a great experience.

“I was not welcomed at the training session when I first arrived but I managed to make a deal with coach Glen Mills to stay but it meant I wasn’t allowed to take photographs.

“Usain is a cool man – very relaxed. I met him in the session and he was very focused. It was great to watch him.”