Bhubaneswar: Legendary athlete PT Usha was elected as the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Monday.
“Congratulations to legendary Golden Girl, Smt. P T Usha on being elected as the President of Indian Olympic Association. I also congratulate all the sporting heroes of our country on becoming the office bearers of the prestigious IOA! A nation is proud of them!,” tweeted Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju.
Notably, PT Usha is the first woman president of the IOA.
The 58-year-old Usha announced her intention to run for IOA president on November 26. While the election was scheduled to take place on December 10, The Payyoli Express was the only contender, thus winning the election for the top position in the sports organisation.
One of the most accomplished athletes from India, PT Usha has won 11 medals, including four gold, at the Asian Games between 1982 and 1994. She won four gold medals at the Seoul Asan Games in 1986 in the 200 metres, 400 metres, 400 metres hurdles, and 4 x 400 relay. She also took home a silver in the 100 metres.
(With inputs from ANI)