PT Usha nominated to Rajya Sabha: Things to know about the 'Sprint Queen of India'

Legendary athlete PT Usha was on Wednesday nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the BJP. Here's what you need to know about the 'Sprint Queen of India'.

PT Usha nominated to Rajya Sabha: Things to know about the 'Sprint Queen of India'

Born on June 27, 1964 in a small village in Kozhikode district in Kerala, PT Usha is one of the most iconic sportspeople in India. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

PT Usha has been associated with Indian athletics since 1979 and is often called the ‘Queen of Indian track and field.’ Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

Popularly known as Payyoli Express, she is one of the finest athletes in India who has inspired millions to take up careers in sports. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

From World Junior Invitational Meet to Asian Games, PT Usha made the nation proud by winning several medals in various international sporting events. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

PT Usha has set and broken many national and Asian records in her illustrious career and has won 102 national and international medals and awards. Credit: DH Photo

She missed winning India’s first medal in track and field in a photo-finish at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics as she stood fourth in women’s 400M hurdles and lost the bronze medal by 1/100th of a second. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

PT Usha made a strong comeback in the 1985 Jakarta Asian Championships and won six medals — five gold and one bronze. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

In 1984, PT Usha was felicitated with the prestigious Arjuna Award and Padma Shri for showing outstanding performance in sports. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

Post-retirement, PT Usha started the Usha School of Athletics, which offers world-class facilities to budding athletes. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

Numerous athletes were trained and mentored by PT Usha who have gone on to represent the country and win medals at prestigious national and international competitions. In this photo, PT Usha is seen practicing yoga with her students. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial

A childhood picture of PT Usha (L) with her elder sister. Credit: Twitter/PTUshaOfficial