My Take | National Games are just the start, not finishing line, of sporting ambitions
Much-awaited events are a defining moment in the city’s post-pandemic recovery, but complete transformation of its sports scene will require better coaching, facilities and support for athletes
The news that Hong Kong would co-host China’s National Games for the first time, a landmark for the city, was not accompanied by the fanfare that might have been expected when it was announced four years ago.
At the time, the world was still in the grip of the pandemic. Hong Kong’s measures to combat Covid-19, including quarantine and strict social-distancing rules, hit the city’s sports sector hard.
Iconic events such as the rugby sevens, the marathon and Oxfam Trailwalker were cancelled or scaled down. International competitions moved elsewhere. Sports venues, leagues and gyms closed.
There was, for a time, even a requirement that masks be worn while exercising outdoors. Ever tried running in a mask? I wouldn’t recommend it. Some teams resorted to training sessions via Zoom.
This was a desperate time for Hong Kong sport, with elite athletes and emerging talent deprived of much-needed opportunities to develop.
It was difficult to imagine the city would, even by 2025, be simultaneously hosting multiple sports events watched by tens of thousands of cheering fans, anticipating a haul of medals.