Why Usain Bolt waited until 40 to propose to Kasi Bennett
Usain Bolt has taken a major step in his long-term relationship with Kasi Bennett, proposing to his partner during his 40th birthday celebration in Kingston, Jamaica.
The eight-time Olympic champion reportedly popped the question on August 21 at One Belmont, surrounded by family and close friends. The milestone birthday became even more memorable as Bolt got down on one knee and asked Bennett to marry him.
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The couple, who have been together since 2013, have built a family away from much of the spotlight. Their relationship became public during the 2016 Rio Olympics, but marriage was something Bolt had previously indicated he wanted to approach carefully.
“She’s happy, I’m happy!” Bolt shared of his relationship with Bennett at the time. “I want to have what my parents have. I want to take my time to make sure everything is perfect.”
The proposal marks a new chapter for the couple, whose relationship has grown from a private romance into a family life shared with their three children.
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A birthday celebration turns into a proposal
Photos from the proposal show Bolt wearing a beige checkered suit as he knelt before Bennett, who was dressed in a gold bodycon outfit featuring silver sequin detailing.
Bolt held a microphone during the emotional moment as his longtime partner appeared visibly moved. Another photograph captured Bennett embracing her newly engaged partner while Bolt smiled and wrapped his arms around her.
The proposal reportedly took place in front of the couple’s family and friends, making Bolt’s 40th birthday celebration a particularly significant occasion for the family.
Bennett later showed off the engagement ring, which reportedly features a 5-carat pear-shaped diamond surrounded by additional stones along the band. The striking piece quickly became one of the highlights of the celebration.
Bennett’s heartfelt birthday tribute
The engagement came shortly after Bennett publicly celebrated Bolt’s 40th birthday with a heartfelt tribute on social media.
She shared photographs and videos of their life together, including moments with their children and affectionate snapshots of the couple.
“Happy 40th birthday to my person. ❤️,” she captioned the post. “My love, my home, my forever. You are an incredible dad and truly the centre of our little world.”
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Bennett added: “Your legacy is extraordinary, but the man behind it will always be what makes me proudest. So grateful to do this fun life we’ve created with you. I love you endlessly baby. ❤️⚡️,”
Bolt and Bennett started dating in 2013 but initially kept their romance away from the public eye. Their relationship attracted worldwide attention when they went public around the Rio Olympics in 2016.
A relationship built over more than a decade
The pair have since welcomed three children. Their daughter, Olympia Lightning Bolt, is six, while their twin sons, Thunder Bolt and Saint Leo Bolt, are five.
Bolt has previously spoken about his desire to build a relationship similar to that of his parents, Wellesley and Jennifer Bolt, who spent years together before marrying.
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His comments from a 2016 interview offered an insight into why he was in no rush to walk down the aisle. Rather than treating marriage as a race, the Jamaican sprinting legend said he wanted to take his time and ensure the relationship was right.
That patience has now culminated in a proposal at a celebration marking his 40th birthday.
