World Athletics Championships 2013 Closing Ceremony: Usain Bolt, JYJ and More

Usain Bolt made history in the final hours of the 2013 World Athletics Championships, winning his third gold medal in Moscow and his eighth career gold at this prestigious event to warm up the crowd for the closing ceremony. 

With his eight gold medals and two silvers, Bolt is now the most successful athlete to ever compete at the World Athletics Championships, edging out Carl Lewis, who has eight golds, one silver and one bronze, as noted by the Associated Press (via ESPN.com). 

As usual, Bolt wasn't content to merely win—he put on a show. Bruce Arthur of the National Post called him the "most thrilling athlete alive," and it's hard to argue with his assessment:

His history-making performance capped off an eventful championships, and it was a precursor for a lively closing ceremony that featured, among others, JYJ.

Kicking off the festivities was IAAF president Lamine Diack and many of the men and women who helped put the event together.

Afterward, it was time to party, and the athletes were showered with streamers and applause for their efforts the past nine days.

JYJ put on a show, playing many of their hits to the delight of the athletes and fans. 

While the World Athletics Championships isn't as high profile an event as the Olympic Games, it is just as significant to the men and women who participate. Many of us only see these elite athletes every four years, but they train tirelessly and compete vigorously throughout the year.

As the festivities wound down to an end, the IAAF was already looking ahead to the 2015 championships, which will be held in Beijing:

For now, Usain Bolt and the rest of the athletes will take the time to enjoy what has been a phenomenal week-and-a-half of competition from Moscow.

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