Bhatkal’s Pride: Yousuf Usman Motiya Shines as 11-Time State Gold Medalist
The Bhatkal sprinter continues to excel despite hearing impairment, standing out among 550 athletes from 53 Uttara Kannada teams.
Bhatkal: Yousuf Usman Motiya has once again shown that true champions are defined not by limitations but by determination. The young sprinter from Bhatkal, who has been deaf since birth, has achieved an incredible milestone winning Gold at the state level for 11 consecutive years and representing Uttara Kannada at national events.
This year’s competition saw 53 teams from Uttara Kannada, with more than 550 deaf athletes participating across various track and field events. Even in such a large and competitive field, Yousuf stood out with his remarkable performances.
Known for his quiet confidence and strong work ethic, Yousuf excels in the 100m, 200m, and 4×100m relay events. Despite receiving minimal coaching support, he continues to outrun expectations and inspire fellow athletes across the district.
His achievements have brought immense pride to the town of Bhatkal, which celebrates him as a symbol of resilience and excellence. Yousuf’s journey is a powerful reminder that challenges can be transformed into strengths with dedication and belief.
The people of Bhatkal and Uttara Kannada are encouraged to applaud his efforts — by sharing his story or offering him a warm handshake the next time they meet him.
