New Delhi, India, April 19, 2023: The President of the Indian Olympic Association, PT Usha, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the Central University of Kerala.
The renowned Indian athlete was conferred the degree by Vice Chancellor Prof. H. Venkateshwarlu at Sabarmati Hall, Periya Campus earlier this month. She was the university’s first recipient of this prestigious title which was awarded for her outstanding contribution to Indian sport.
In an emotional speech, Usha recounted her heart-wrenching experience of missing out on an Olympic medal by one-hundredth of a second at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
“I am fighting to win the elusive Olympic medal for the country which has been the prayers of millions. Once you work towards the goal it becomes a reality,” the IOA President said.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Venkateshwarlu praised Usha as the pride of the nation and a role model for youth. He emphasised it was the university’s duty to honour and recognise such distinguished individuals who have inspired and contributed to their respective fields.
Usha won four gold medals at the 1986 Seoul Asian Games – in the 200m, 400m, 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay. She also won seven Asian Games silver medals spanning the 1982 to 1994 Games. Nicknamed the Payyoli Express, she also won a total of 13 gold medals at the Asian Championships from 1983 to 1998.