But he's not just doing distance. He's doing different strokes as well, all of which require different skills and muscles to succeed. If Bolt wants more medals he can do hurdles, 400 meter races, etc. Carl Lewis managed to win the 100, 200, and long jump.
Exactly, which gives him even more chances, which makes it even MORE farcical.
You're really comparing the difference between freestyle and backstroke to doing a 100m and doing hurdles?

Unfortunately for sprinters, there is only 1 way to run.
Phelps is the greatest swimmer ever, Bolt is a phenomenon.