Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe was elected as the first female President of the IOC during the 144th IOC Session in Greece. She expressed gratitude and aims to inspire others while promoting the values of the Olympic Movement. Outgoing President Thomas Bach congratulated her, highlighting a positive outlook for the future.
Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has made history by being elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the first female to hold this position. This election took place during the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, after a single round of voting. Coventry triumphed over notable candidates including HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein and Lord Sebastian Coe.
Following her election, President-elect Coventry expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am incredibly honoured and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee! I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support.” She emphasized the significance of her achievement, particularly as the first female IOC President and the first from Africa, and hopes it inspires others.
Coventry articulated her commitment to harnessing the unifying power of sports, affirming, “Sport has an unmatched power to unite, inspire and create opportunities for all, and I am committed to making sure we harness that power to its fullest.” She aims to continue promoting the values of friendship, excellence, and respect within the Olympic Movement.
In response to her election, outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach congratulated Coventry, stating, “Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th IOC President. I warmly welcome the decision of the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation, particularly during the transition period.” He expressed confidence in a bright future for the Olympic Movement under her leadership.
Kirsty Coventry is set to succeed Thomas Bach, whose 12-year presidency will conclude on June 23, 2025. The President of the IOC is elected for an eight-year term by secret ballot from the IOC Members.
Kirsty Coventry’s election as the first female President of the IOC marks a significant milestone in Olympic history. Her commitment to leveraging sports as a means of unity and inspiration reflects a progressive vision for the Olympic Movement. As she transitions into her role, the expectation for innovation and adherence to core values remains high, promising a bright future for the organization and its stakeholders.
Original Source: chimpreports.com
