IndiaBiography
Widely considered the greatest ever female athlete from India. Renowned as Golden Girl of India. Missed Olympic medal in Los Angeles 1984 by only 0.01 secs in 400m hurdles final, where she broke Asian record 55.42. Attended four different Olympics. In Asian region, she was one of the greatest achievers. Still holds most medals (23), most medals (6) and most gold in one edition (5) records in Asian Championships. Also has 11 medals in Asian Games. Broke numerous records in her 21-year long career. Selected Best Asian Athlete for five times. Crowned 17 National titles (including three National Games gold) in India.
PERSONAL BESTS
100m: 11.39 (1985)
200m: 23.05 (1999)
400m: 51.61 (1985)
400H: 55.42 (1984) NR
NOTES
♦ Married to a security professional in 1991. The couple had a son one year later.
♦ Established an athletics grassroot project in all across Kerala & India.
♦ Nicknamed Payyoli Express, deprived from her hometown in Kerala region.
♦ Received IAAF Veteran Pin in 2019 for astonishing contribution to athletics.
♦ Decorated with an honorary doctorate from three universities.
♦ Selected as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in India (2003).
♦ Website: ptusha.com