World’s fastest man did something deeply moving for a blind Paralympic champion

Paralympic rules require blind sprinters to make their runs while tethered to their guides. But last year, three-time Brazilian sprinting champion Terezinha Guilhermina, who has also been called the world’s fastest blind woman by some outlets, revealed her guide to be none other than world-famous Olympian Usain Bolt, who joined her for a 50m sprint.

“It was a dream come true,” said Guilhermina, winner of the gold in the 100m and 200m at the London 2012 Games as well as the 200m at the Beijing 2008 Games. “He was a little uncertain at the start, afraid that I might fall over or that he would run too fast. This shows how much respect events like this bring to Paralympic athletes… Running with him [Bolt] is a joy for any athlete. Bolt is a reference in the sport and I’m happy to have participated in this race. I fulfilled a dream.”

Bolt was in Rio to compete in the Mano a Mano Challenge at the Brazilian Jockey Club, which he later won, running 100m in 10.12 seconds. He also holds the world record for the event, at 9.58 seconds.

Bolt can be seen running with Guilhermina in the clip below, grinning the whole way.

Guilhermina’s 200m Gold Medal run at the London 2012 Paralympic Games can also be found here: