In an exclusive interview with Ann Grant, the captain of the team, the International Hockey Federation delved into the incredible journey of these pioneering women. 1980 marked the first time women’s hockey was included as an Olympic discipline. For newly independent Zimbabwe, this was more than just a sporting competition; it was a chance to put their nation on the world map.

"Our team was extremely excited to be invited to the 22nd Olympic Games, especially as it was the first time women's hockey was an Olympic discipline and our new nation of Zimbabwe was only formally confirmed in April 1980," Grant said recalling the invitation.

Initially, the team's destination was South Africa for an interprovincial tournament. However, in a surprising turn of events, they were instead invited to the Moscow Olympics. With just a month to prepare, the team had to hastily organise passports, uniforms, and a multitude of administrative details, all while securing a month’s leave from their employers. 

The team arrived in Moscow ten days before the start of the Olympics and faced the challenge of adapting to artificial turf, something none of the players had ever experienced. Daily practices at local stadiums were invaluable in getting accustomed to this new surface.

"We were taken to the super new Olympic Village with amenities open 24 hours and then rushed off to get new hockey shoes as not one of us had ever played on artificial turf, including our coach!" Grant said. 

Walking into Lenin Stadium for the opening ceremony was a moment of awe and pride for the Zimbabwe team. They marched with their new national flag flying high, dressed in their bright blue uniforms.

The women's hockey tournament was conducted on a round-robin basis, featuring teams from Russia, Czechoslovakia, Poland, India, Austria, and Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe remained unbeaten heading into their final match against Austria. The victory secured them the gold medal, making history as the first winners in Olympic women's hockey and earning Zimbabwe its first-ever Olympic gold.

"It is difficult to express our feelings of sheer joy and excitement of our achievement! We stood on that red carpet to receive our gold medals from Mr. Reg Alexander, IOC member from Kenya, and Mr. Renee Frank, the President of the International Hockey Federation. The unforgettable moment our flag was raised with the beautiful Olympic hymn playing in the background," Grant recalls their triumphant moment. 

Their return home to Zimbabwe was nothing short of spectacular. The team was welcomed with a guard of honour and a huge crowd of fans and their families. Events were organised to celebrate their achievement, ensuring that all Zimbabweans could share in this historic moment.

The legacy of the Golden Girls continues to inspire future generations of hockey players in Zimbabwe. Their story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination, unity, and a love for the game. The annual Golden Girls Hockey Tournament, held every July, keeps the spirit of their victory alive. Many of the team members have gone on to coach at various levels, giving back to the sport that brought them together.