The Sunday Mail
Brighton Zhawi
AFTER working her magic in the pool for two decades and winning gold at the Olympics Kirsty Coventry is ready to do her thing in the boardroom.
The 33-year-old is one of four candidates aiming for the two vice presidents posts at the Zimbabwe Olympic elections at Prince Edward School in Harare.
“My 20-year career as an Olympic athlete is well documented but what many people may not know is the roles I have taken over the last few years in sports administration,” Coventry said.
“When it comes to sport administration what I value most is simple: integrity, good governance, sustainability and team work.
“My strength of character allows me to share my views and challenge ideas. I remain true to what I believe in, but open to what others may offer.”
Coventry is competing against former Zimbabwe Volleyball Association president Frederick Ndlovu, Martin Kweza, the Northern Region Division- one soccer league vice chairperson and Thabhani Gonye who is seeking re-election to the post.
She believes she has an edge over the other contestants.
“For over a decade, I have also been working with our swimming federation so I understand the internal struggles we face and I believe this experience, my international experience, and the position as vice president, will be invaluable in moving our nation’s sports forward.
“It is this balance that brings us together where we can form the best possible solutions, as it takes more than just one to make this happen.
“Things in Zimbabwe are not easy but that is why we must come together and use our energy and time to be innovative in our thinking and efficient in our implementation,” said Coventry.
Meanwhile, the battle for the presidency looks set to be a bruising affair between incumbent Admire Masenda, Charles Mukaronda and Joe Rugwete.
