A journalism student caught up with the world’s fastest man after flying half way around the world in a bid to interview him.

Dylan Legrand, who is studying sports journalism at the University of Brighton, travelled to Jamaica in hope of meeting six-time Olympic gold medal winner Usain Bolt, who he wanted to interview as part of his dissertation.

The Eastbourne student paid for the trip with his own money, with some help from his older brother.

He successfully tracked down the athlete after encountering a stroke of luck on his flight to Jamaica, where he was sat next to a couple whose home happened to be close to the college Bolt once attended.

Dylan replicating Bolt’s trademark pose while in Jamaica

The college directed him to Sherwood Content, Bolt’s hometown, where he met the 100m and 200m world record holder’s father, Wellesley.

Dylan was also invited to meet staff at the Jamaica Observer newspaper, who discussed Jamaican Olympic efforts and told him where the sprint team practised.

Although they warned him he would be ejected from the training ground, Dylan decided to try his luck anyway.

He told Brighton daily The Argus: “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. Unfortunately it meant I wasn’t allowed to take photographs.”

But the gamble paid off and Dylan managed to meet Bolt himself.

He has since used his material from his time in Jamaica to write a critical investigation feature for university, as well as an article which he hopes will be published in an international magazine.

He said: “When I told my father (about the idea for the trip), he did not disapprove, but he thought it was a really crazy idea.

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

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

Dylan, who graduates this year, hopes his article will help him launch a career in journalism.

He added: “I would recommend my course to anyone thinking of a career in journalism. It helped me master my communication, journalism and interviewing skills, and with preparation for a first job within the industry.”