The 15th National Games officially opened on November 9, marking a historic collaboration between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. The Hong Kong competition area is hosting eight events, including beach volleyball and handball, which have already created a vibrant atmosphere in Victoria Park and the Kai Tak Arena. Other venues, including the landmark Kai Tak main stadium, are also fully prepared.
In a recent interview with Xinhua News, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law stated that this is the first time the three regions have cooperated so closely to host a large-scale event. The National Games not only reflect the country's emphasis on the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area but also provide a platform for further collaboration, effectively pressing the "fast forward" button for Hong Kong's goal of becoming an "event city."
Law emphasized that "sport is not just about competition; it's about promoting fitness for all." She noted that when spectators cheer for athletes up close, it not only motivates the competitors but also inspires many young people to think, "I can try that too," planting the seeds of sports in their hearts.
Championship-Level Competitors Aim for Medals
This year's National Games are co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Hong Kong previously hosted a bowling event in August and is responsible for beach volleyball, men's handball, basketball (men's under-22), rugby sevens, golf, track cycling, triathlon, and fencing. The events will take place at the Kai Tak main stadium, Kai Tak Arena, Hong Kong Velodrome, Fanling Golf Course, Hong Kong Coliseum, and along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, showcasing the charm of Hong Kong as an international metropolis. The beach volleyball venue set up in Victoria Park and the seating arrangements also highlight Hong Kong's adaptability.
Hong Kong has sent its largest-ever delegation to the National Games, comprising over 600 athletes and 270 accompanying staff and medical personnel, competing in 28 events. Including participants and staff from 23 community events, the total number exceeds 1,800. Among the athletes representing Hong Kong are several international champions, notably two-time Olympic men's foil gold medalist Cheung Ka-long, who cherishes the opportunity to "compete at home," stating, "Fencing competitions are rarely held in Hong Kong, and having family and friends supporting me is the most enjoyable part."
High Demand for Beach Volleyball and Handball Tickets
Yesterday, the women's beach volleyball bronze and final matches took place, while the men's handball team appeared in the semifinals, leading to a situation where tickets were hard to come by. Other competition venues are fully set up, with over 16,000 volunteers stepping into their roles, including reception at arrivals and departures, spectator services, guest reception, crowd control, logistical support, and food management. With the official opening of the 15th National Games today, the Hong Kong competition area is ready.
Notable Facts about the Hong Kong Competition Area and Team
Largest Delegation: Over 600 athletes, along with 270 accompanying staff and medical personnel, make this the largest delegation in Hong Kong's National Games history, with more than 1,800 participants overall.
Largest Volunteer Team: More than 16,000 volunteers have been officially appointed, forming the largest volunteer team in Hong Kong's history.
Oldest Competitor: 81-year-old table tennis player in mass sports, Mr. Cheung, is the oldest athlete on the Hong Kong team and sets the record for the highest age of participants in this year's event.
Youngest Team: The U16 men's football team has the youngest average age among the Hong Kong delegation, with seven players born in 2010.
Newest Venue: The Kai Tak Sports Park is set to be completed by the end of 2024, with an opening ceremony scheduled for March 1, 2025.
Oldest Venue: Fanling Golf Course has been in operation since 1911, making it the oldest existing golf course in Asia.
Key Statistics for the Hong Kong Competition Area
1: The first gold medal for the Hong Kong competition area was awarded on November 8 during the women's beach volleyball event, won by Fujian.
7: There are seven main competition venues, including the Kai Tak main stadium, Kai Tak Arena, Hong Kong Coliseum, Victoria Park, Fanling Golf Course, Hong Kong Velodrome, and the Victoria Harbour waterfront.
8: Eight competitive events are hosted, including basketball (men's under-22), track cycling, fencing, golf, handball (men's), rugby sevens, triathlon, and beach volleyball, along with a community bowling event.
10: November 16 will be the day when the most gold medals are awarded in the Hong Kong competition area, with a total of 10 gold medals up for grabs, including one in triathlon, two in fencing, three in track cycling, and four in golf.
45: A total of 45 gold medals will be awarded in the Hong Kong competition area, including one in handball, one in U22 basketball, two in beach volleyball, two in rugby sevens, three in triathlon, four in golf, 12 in fencing, 14 in track cycling, and six in bowling.
Highlights of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Events
Guangdong:
- Swimming: 41 gold medals will be awarded, featuring stars like Pan Zhanle, Wang Shun, Zhang Yufei, and Qin Haiyang in the swimming pool.
- Athletics: The focus will be on Su Bingtian, with the men's 4×100 meter relay final possibly being his career farewell.
Hong Kong:
- The men's foil team, led by two-time Olympic champion Cheung Ka-long, aims for a team gold medal.
- The cycling team has secured gold in every National Games since 1997, achieving a total of 10 golds, 4 silvers, and 9 bronzes.
Macao:
- Macao has previously hosted international table tennis and women's volleyball events, and its event organization is well-established, with popular sessions already sold out.
(Source: Ta Kung Pao; Reporter: Tan Delong; English Editor: Kiki)
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