Hong Kong will be a winner with 2025 National Games success
- A well-staged Games will not just enhance the city’s ability in organising major events and sports participation, but also the national identity and pride of residents
Hong Kong may only be a small champion in the international sporting arena, yet it has gradually consolidated its athletic credentials with an array of record-breaking performances in the Olympics and other world competitions. In another historic step, the city will for the first time host some events in the 2025 National Games. With the starting gun soon to be fired, the relevant authorities must get set and go for a triumphant performance.
The stakes are high and so are the challenges involved. Among the eight events entrusted to the city are fencing and swimming. The city will also be hosting rugby sevens, golf, triathlon, beach volleyball, men’s handball and under-22 men’s basketball when the nation’s highest-level and largest multi-sport event will be staged from November 9 to 21 next year.
Hong Kong in support role as National Games co-host, will learn from Guangdong
This is the first time the Special Administrative Region co-hosts the country’s sporting extravaganza, along with Guangdong and Macau. The triathlon is to be held in Victoria Harbour, showcasing our picturesque landscape and vibrancy. The Hong Kong Coliseum will be used for basketball, the Tseung Kwan O Velodrome will be the venue for track cycling, Victoria Park will host beach volleyball and golf will be at the Fanling course. Separately, bowling will also be held as a mass participation event. But the city did not secure the surfing and football events.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the government would adhere to the principle of “simple, safe and wonderful” in organising the Games, making use of existing venues and the soon-to-be-commissioned Kai Tak Sports Park. Given the prevailing economic and social situation, the approach seems appropriate.
A successful Games will not just enhance the city’s ability in organising major events and sports participation, but also the national identity and pride of residents. The city has no shortage of experience in staging mega sports spectacles. Apart from the East Asian Games in 2009, it also hosted the 2008 Beijing Olympics equestrian event, the Hong Kong marathon and Rugby Sevens as well as international tennis, golf and badminton tournaments. The National Games will put the city’s organisational skills to the test.
