Kirsty Coventry from Zimbabwe has been elected as the first female president of the IOC, with congratulations from the Cuban Olympic Committee and national sports leaders. The election, held in Costa Navarino, Greece, saw Coventry securing 49 votes, leading her closest competitor by 19. Coventry’s election was supported by Bach and the IOC’s female members, marking a historic moment for sports leadership.
The Cuban Olympic Committee (COC) extended its congratulations to Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe for her election as the first female president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). In a message posted on their Facebook profile, the COC expressed optimism about her contributions to international sports and wished her success in her new role. Additionally, they acknowledged the election of Thomas Bach as the Honorary Life President, who previously served as IOC president since 2013.
Vento Montiller, the head of Cuba’s National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (Inder), also celebrated Coventry’s historical achievement, noting her significance as the first woman and an African representative to take on this prestigious role. Kirsty Coventry, an accomplished athlete and Olympic champion, garnered 49 votes from 97 IOC members during the election held in Costa Navarino, Greece.
Unexpectedly, Coventry secured her election in a single round of voting, despite predictions of a close contest that might have required multiple rounds. Her support came notably from Thomas Bach and other female IOC members, as well as African representatives. Coventry led her closest rival, Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr., by a margin of 19 votes, while other candidates including Sebastian Coe and Jordon Prince Feisal Al Hussein received significantly fewer votes.
Kirsty Coventry’s historic election as the first female president of the IOC marks a significant milestone for representation in international sports leadership. Supported by prominent figures and her peers within the IOC, Coventry demonstrated overwhelming electoral backing, confirming her capability to lead and inspire. The acknowledgment of Thomas Bach as Honorary Life President further signifies a transition in leadership within the IOC, fostering hope for future advancements in promoting sports worldwide.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
