Born: 1962 (Lima, Peru)
Cecilia Roxana Tait Villacorta was born on May 2, 1962, in Lima, Peru. She is a renowned Peruvian politician and former volleyball player. Tait’s sporting career was marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the sport, earning her the nickname La Zurda del Oro or The Golden Left-Handed Woman.
Tait made her mark in the world of volleyball, representing the Peru national team in three consecutive Summer Olympics. In 1980, she finished 6th with the team, which was a significant feat for a young player. Tait’s determination and skill led her to an even more impressive performance in the following Olympics. In 1984, she helped her team secure 4th place, demonstrating her exceptional talent and leadership on the court.
However, Tait’s most significant achievement came in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, where she and her team achieved remarkable success. They clinched the silver medal, marking a historic moment for Peruvian volleyball. Tait’s exceptional skills and contributions played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone, solidifying her status as one of the nation’s most celebrated athletes.
Tait’s success extended beyond the Olympic Games. She was an essential part of the Peruvian team that secured second place in the World Championship in 1982. Four years later, in the 1986 World Championship, she played a crucial role in helping the team achieve third place. Tait’s exceptional performance on the international stage garnered her widespread recognition and elevated the status of Peruvian volleyball in the sports world.
Her achievements were not limited to international competitions. Tait also excelled in the Pan American Games, earning medals for her country. In 1979, she won a silver medal in San Juan, followed by a bronze medal in 1983 in Caracas. Tait’s remarkable skill and dedication resulted in another silver medal in 1987 in Indianapolis. Her performances in these prestigious tournaments further solidified her reputation as a formidable athlete.
Following her extraordinary volleyball career, Tait decided to pursue a career in politics. In 1998, she entered the political arena by becoming an elected municipal councillor in Villa María del Triunfo, representing the Fujimorist party Vamos Vecino under President Alberto Fujimori. Tait then went on to assume the role of Congresswoman in 2000, representing the Perú Posible party.
As an Afro-Peruvian, Tait made history as the first person from her community to be elected to Peru’s Congress. Her presence in the political sphere served as an inspiration for marginalized communities, proving that diversity and representation matter. During her tenure, Tait advocated for various bills aimed at expanding sports programs for talented athletes and underprivileged school children, showcasing her commitment to the advancement of sports opportunities for all.
Tait’s dedication to serving her constituents and making a positive impact on society was evident throughout her political career. She faced challenges and triumphs in equal measure, displaying resilience and an unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Although she failed to secure reelection in 2006, Tait made a successful comeback in 2011, winning another term as Congresswoman.
In 2016, after her tenure in Congress, Tait left office under the Peruvians for Change party. Her contributions as a politician and her accomplishments as a volleyball player have solidified her legacy. Tait’s journey serves as a powerful example of an individual who excelled in multiple domains, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history and society as a whole.
Awards:
– Silver Medal, 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul
– Silver Medal, 1979 Pan American Games in San Juan
– Bronze Medal, 1983 Pan American Games in Caracas
– Silver Medal, 1987 Pan American Games in Indianapolis