PT Usha, also known as the "Payyoli Express," was born on June 27, 1964, in Payyoli, Kozhikode, Kerala, India. As a child, she showed a natural talent for running and was discovered by coach O.M. Nambiar at the Indian National School Games. Under his guidance, Usha began to train as a sprinter and quickly rose through the ranks in the world of track and field.
Usha's first taste of international success came in 1982 when she medaled at the New Delhi Asiad. She followed this up with another strong showing at the 1983 Asian Track and Field Championships. Her breakthrough came at the Seoul Asian Games in 1986, where she won four gold medals and solidified her reputation as the "queen" of Indian track and field.
Usha's Olympic career began in 1980 when she competed as a sprinter in the Summer Olympics held in Moscow. She went on to participate in the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games, cementing her status as one of India's greatest athletes.
One of Usha's most impressive accomplishments was setting the Indian national athletic record for the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 55.45 seconds at an event in Los Angeles. This record stood for many years and solidified her place as a trailblazer in Indian athletics.
Usha's achievements did not go unnoticed, and she was honored with India's prestigious Arjuna Award for athletics, along with fellow sprinter Saraswati Saha. Her impact on the world of track and field continues to be felt, inspiring future generations of Indian athletes to aim for greatness.
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