Full Name: Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha
Born: 27 June 1964 – Kerala, India
Sport: Athletics (Track and Field)
Specialization: 100m, 200m, 400m, and 400m hurdles
Nicknames: Payyoli Express, Golden Girl of India
Story:
Born in a small village in Kerala, PT Usha rose to fame through sheer grit, speed, and determination. Despite limited resources and training facilities, she trained hard and became the first Indian woman to reach the finals of an Olympic event, narrowly missing a medal in the 400m hurdles at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics by just 1/100th of a second.
She won over 100 international medals, including multiple golds at the Asian Games and Asian Championships, inspiring generations of Indian athletes. After retirement, she started the Usha School of Athletics, mentoring young female athletes to follow in her footsteps.
Key Achievements:
- 🥇 4 Gold and 1 Silver – 1986 Asian Games
- 💫 Missed Olympic bronze by 0.01 seconds – 1984
- 🇮🇳 Over 100 international medals
- 🏅 First woman president of Indian Olympic Association (2022)
Quote Inspired by Her Journey:
“Falling short by a second doesn’t end a dream—it fuels a lifetime of inspiration.”
