The forgotten hero of Indian sports: 'The Payyoli Express' P T Usha

New Delhi: Famously known as "queen of Indian track and field", Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha was born on June 27, 1964 in the village of Payyoli, Kozhikode District, Kerala. The Indian legend Nick named 'Payyoli Express' was the greatest athlete of her time. She commenced her athletic career by the age of 15 years. In 1979, P t Usha participated in National School Games where her talent was first noticed by well renowned athletics coach of that period O M Nambiar. P T Usha excelled under his guidance and training throughout her career. She had a disastrous debut in 1980 Moscow Olympics but she did not loose her heart and worked harder on her game. In 1982 Delhi Asiad Games, her hard work repaid her and she won Silver in 100 and 200 m. A year later, In Asian Track and Field Championship Kuwait she won Gold in 400 m and also became the Asian record holder. She finished first in 400 m hurdles in 1984 Los Angeles Olympics but lost in the finals yet she became first Indian women to reach the 400 m hurdles final in an Olympic event.In 1986 Seoul Asian Games she won 4 Gold and 1 Silver in track and field events. Throughout her career Usha has won 101 medals and for that she was awarded by Padma Shri and Arjuna Award by the Indian Government. She got a job in Southern railways in 1985. Presently she is coaching young athletes in her very own training academy in Kerala.