National Games: Hong Kong trio proving amateur stars can also shine among China’s elite
David Wong, Johnny Wong and Andy Cheng will represent their city in the mass participation tennis event after gruelling selection process
When most people think of the National Games, it is elite athletes such as tennis star Coleman Wong Chak-lam and Olympic fencing champion Cheung Ka-long who come to mind.
But the multi-sport occasion also features 23 mass participation events that allow talented amateurs to represent their provinces and cities.
Tennis is one of those sports offering the opportunity, and the honour of representing Hong Kong in the men’s team competition has fallen to David Wong Ka-chuen, Johnny Wong Koon-wah and Andy Cheng Man-nam.
Late bloomers
Johnny Wong, who previously played volleyball recreationally, and Andy Cheng, who is the oldest of the trio at 53, only started playing tennis in their late 30s. David Wong, meanwhile, played in his teens but only picked up a racquet again more than 30 years later. For all three, health was the primary motivation.
“Most of us at this age play [tennis] for health reasons,” Johnny Wong said. “For example, I cannot handle the big jumps that volleyball demands with age.
“We have to accept that our competitive condition changes and adapt accordingly. Maybe I had a really good feeling last week and kept winning, but this week I just cannot get into that state.”
David Wong added: “Before, I did not stretch at all. Now, I have to stretch as soon as I wake up and again before going to bed just to keep my body ready for tennis, especially matches.”
Initially, Johnny Wong took up the sport “just for fun”, then the 48-year-old realised he was getting good and hired a coach.