Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt gave his 40th birthday celebration an unforgettable twist when he got down on one knee and proposed to his longtime partner and the mother of his children, Kasi Bennett.
Bolt reportedly popped the question during his birthday celebrations at One Belmont in Kingston on Friday night, August 21, turning what was already a major milestone into an even more memorable occasion. The eight time Olympic gold medallist presented Bennett with a five carat engagement ring as family and close friends watched.
The emotional moment marked a major new chapter for a couple who have been together for more than a decade. Bolt and Bennett began their relationship around 2013 and largely kept their romance away from the public spotlight during its early years before becoming more publicly known around the 2016 Rio Olympics.
For Bolt, the proposal comes after years of building a family with Bennett. The couple are parents to three children, daughter Olympia Lightning Bolt and twin sons Thunder and Saint Leo.
Bennett had already shared a heartfelt birthday tribute to Bolt before the celebration, describing him as her “person,” her “home” and her “forever.” She also praised him for being an incredible father and expressed gratitude for the life they have created together.
The proposal appeared to add an emotional highlight to Bolt’s 40th birthday, with photographs from the celebration showing the sprint icon on one knee while Bennett reacted to the surprise. Another image showed the newly engaged couple embracing after she accepted the proposal.
Known worldwide as one of the greatest athletes in history, Bolt has already achieved virtually everything possible on the track. Now, as he enters his 40s, the Jamaican icon appears ready to add another major achievement to his personal life marriage to the woman who has shared much of his journey away from the stadium.
After years together, three children and countless milestones, Bolt and Bennett’s engagement has given fans another reason to celebrate with Jamaica’s beloved “Lightning Bolt.”