PT Usha: The Queen of Indian Track and Field
In the realm of Indian athletics, one name that resonates with unparalleled glory and unparalleled speed is Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, fondly known as PT Usha. Hailed as the “queen of Indian track and field” and the “payyoli express,” Usha has left an indelible mark on the nation’s sporting landscape. Born on June 27, 1964, in the village of Payyoli, Kerala, she discovered her love for running at an early age, with her parents and teachers recognizing her talent and providing unwavering support.
PT Usha Early Career and Mentorship:
Usha’s athletic journey commenced when she joined a sports school in Kannur at the tender age of 12. Under the guidance of her coach, O.M. Nambiar, who astutely recognized her potential, Usha underwent rigorous training. Her first taste of international competition came at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, where she participated in the 100m and 200m events. Remarkably, she was the youngest Indian athlete at the Olympics, and her impressive performance saw her finish fourth in the 200m heats.
PT Usha Breakthrough at the Asian Games:
Usha’s breakthrough moment arrived at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. With sheer determination, she clinched two silver medals in the 100m and 200m events, making the entire nation proud. Additionally, Usha showcased her prowess as part of the 4x100m relay team, securing a gold medal alongside her teammates. This triumph made her the first Indian woman to claim an Asian Games gold medal in athletics, and she further etched her name in history by setting a new Asian record of 11.39 seconds in the 100m event.
The Near-Miss at the Olympics:
Undoubtedly, one of the most unforgettable moments in Usha’s career unfolded at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. In the intensely competitive 400m hurdles event, she narrowly missed out on a bronze medal, clocking a remarkable 55.42 seconds. This achievement not only set a new national record but also an Asian record at the time. Usha’s tantalizingly close encounter with the podium, missing it by a mere one-hundredth of a second to Romania’s Cristieana Cojocaru, captured the hearts of millions. She became the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic final and the first Indian to compete in a track event final.
PT Usha Records:
Usha’s dominance extended across the Asian circuit in the ensuing years. At the 1985 Asian Track and Field Championships in Jakarta, she seized four gold medals and one silver medal, rewriting records in each event she participated in. Her remarkable run continued at the 1986 Asian Games in Seoul, where she clinched an unprecedented five gold medals and one bronze medal, solidifying her status as the first athlete to accomplish such a feat in a single Asian Games. In an astonishing display of skill, Usha and her teammates also set a new world record of 1:06:09 minutes in the 4x400m relay.
Challenges and Comeback:
However, Usha faced setbacks due to injuries and illness in the late 1980s and early 1990s. A heel injury prevented her from participating in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, and she narrowly missed qualifying for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics due to malaria. Despite these obstacles, she made a triumphant return at the 1994 Asian Games in Hiroshima, securing three silver medals in the 200m, 400m, and 4x400m relay events.
PT Usha Legacy:
Usha bid farewell to active athletics in 2000, following her fourth Olympic appearance at Sydney. Throughout her illustrious career, she amassed over 100 international medals and shattered numerous national and continental records. Her exceptional achievements were honored with prestigious awards and accolades, including the Arjuna Award (1983), the Padma Shri (1985), the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (1986), and the Padma Shree (2004).
Beyond her personal triumphs, Usha’s influence extends far beyond her competitive years. She is married to V. Srinivasan, an inspector with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), and together they have a son named Ujjwal and a daughter named Ujaina. Usha’s commitment to the growth of Indian athletics persists through her involvement in coaching young athletes at the Usha School of Athletics, which she established in 2002. Additionally, she actively contributes to various sports committees and organizations.
PT Usha: An Inspiration
PT Usha stands as an unwavering inspiration to millions of Indians, particularly women, who aspire to excel in sports. Her legacy as a living legend has brought immense pride to India through her unwavering dedication, unrelenting determination, and unwavering discipline. PT Usha’s remarkable journey continues to ignite the spirit of athleticism in the hearts of those who dare to dream and strive for greatness.
