The battle to succeed John Coates (photo above) as president of the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) is shaping up to be a duel between two contenders. L'Australian Financial Review reveals that two men, Ian Chesterman and Mark Stockwell, have launched their candidacy campaigns. The election is scheduled to be held on April 30, 2022 during the next OAC Annual General Meeting. At 71, John Coates will leave his place after more than 30 years at the head of the Olympic body. Ian Chesterman is already firmly established in the position, as he holds the position of vice-president of the AOC. He was chef de mission of the Australian delegation to the Tokyo 2020 Games. Ian Stockwell can also draw on a solid past. A triple medalist at the 1984 Los Angeles Games, the former swimmer was vice-president of the Australian Sports Commission. He also led the Gold Coast’s bid for the 2018 Commonwealth Games to victory.
