FIORANO, Italy (AP) — The fastest man in the world has taken a break from training to test drive some of the world's fastest cars.
Usain Bolt took a few spins behind the wheels of two different Ferraris — a 458 Italia and a 599 GTB Fiorano — at the Formula One team's private track yesterday.
The event was arranged by Puma, Bolt's top sponsor and one of Ferrari's suppliers.
"I thought I was fast, but these incredible cars give the word 'fast' a new meaning," the Jamaican spring king said.
Bolt is back training after missing the end of the outdoor season in Europe with back problems. He is hoping to defend his 100- and 200-metre titles at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, South Korea.
Bolt won three gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in world-record times.
“Taking laps in the Fiorano track was a thrill. It’s the first time I’ve had a chance to drive a Ferrari on track and it’s a dream come true,” said Usain Bolt when he had finished. ”I thought I was fast; but, these incredible cars give the word fast a new meaning. You have to respect these machines. Being here at Ferrari headquarters is a memorable experience; there’s so much history here. I’m looking forward to getting one of these cars to give me my fix for speed.”
The PUMA BOLT Collection, which Bolt wore during his trip to Maranello, features a range of apparel, footwear and accessories that the sprinter helped develop which include graphic elements representative of Bolt and his beloved Jamaica. The collection, launched in Autumn- Winter 2010, will expand in seasons to come.
