Christy Coventry of Zimbabwe has made history as the first woman and African to chair the IOC, winning 49 out of 97 votes at the 144th assembly in Greece. She succeeds Thomas Bach as the 10th president and expresses her delight, emphasizing her humble beginnings.
Christy Coventry from Zimbabwe has made significant history as the first woman and the first individual from Africa to chair the International Olympic Committee (IOC). At the 144th IOC general assembly held in Pylos, Greece, she achieved a remarkable victory, securing 49 of the 97 votes cast.
The acclaimed former swimmer succeeds Thomas Bach, the outgoing president from Germany, thereby becoming the 10th president of the IOC. In her acceptance speech, Coventry expressed her profound joy, stating her humble beginnings: “This is an extraordinary moment. As a nine-year-old girl, I never thought that I would be standing up here one day, getting to give back to this incredible movement of ours.”
In summary, Christy Coventry’s election as the first female and African chair of the IOC marks a historic milestone. Her profound statement reflects not only her personal journey but also the significance of diversity in leadership within sports. Coventry steps into her role as the 10th president, succeeding Thomas Bach, with aspirations to contribute meaningfully to the Olympic movement.
Original Source: www.gulf-times.com
