SPORTS minister Kirsty Coventry, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president-elect, stepped off the plane at Robert Mugabe International Airport to a heroine's welcome yesterday.
Coventry last week stunned the world by romping to victory in a race few tipped her to stand a chance. She will be sworn in to succeed Thomas Bach on June 23.
The crowd erupted in cheers and applause as Coventry, beaming with pride, made her way through the throng of well-wishers
"I am extremely excited to be home," Coventry told the media at the State Pavilion lounge.
"It's been a long six months, but an exciting six months to go back to Greece, where my Olympic journey started in terms of winning medals in 2004."
Coventry's journey to the top of the IOC began in Greece, where she won her first Olympic medal in 2004. In a poignant moment, she met with the newly-elected President of Greece, Constantine Tassoulas, who shared an inspiring anecdote about ancient Olympia, where female mayors were once elected.
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"When I got to go up and talk with him and meet him, he said, 'Oh yes, you're one of the candidates.' I said, 'Yes, I'm hoping that Greece brings me good luck, as it did in 2004.' And he said to me, 'Oh you're the only lady.' I said, 'Yes I am.' He said, 'You go tell the other candidates that back in the day in ancient Olympia, they only elected mayors, women, female mayors.' So I said, 'Okay, you can mention that in your speech to the other candidates."
Coventry navigated deep turbulent waters to land the powerful post.
"So during the campaign, I focused a lot on being the best person, not gender, but now, I'm very proud that we can say we are the first Zimbabwean, the first African and the first woman. We broke down so many barriers in that vote."
Coventry's voice was filled with emotion as she expressed gratitude to her IOC colleagues for their trust and confidence in her abilities.
"I want to thank all my IOC colleagues for giving me that faith, giving me that confidence, and giving me their trust."
Women Affairs minister Monica Mutsvangwa praised Coventry's grit and tenacity to land the IOC top post.
"We are proud of you, as we celebrate March, this becomes evident, very significant, especially for girl children, for women out there, that you can do it."
Mutsvangwa highlighted Coventry's impressive track record, saying, "You are a source of inspiration for a lot of girls. Let me say, that your track record demonstrates for itself. You are not just Zimbabwe's most decorated Olympian, but you are Africa's best."
Coventry's historic election win is a testament to her hard work, dedication and passion for sports. As she embarks on her new journey as IOC president, she carries the hopes and aspirations of Zimbabwe, Africa and women across the world.
"This is going to be an exciting tenure," Coventry said, her eyes shining with excitement. "Lots of different challenges, but lots of opportunities. As I did in 2004, after my swimming and winning gold, coming back home, I'm excited to share with everybody over the next few days and next few weeks."
