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Hong Kong ushered in a new era of regional unity and athletic celebration on October 28, with the grand unveiling of two bespoke architectural installations, fully supported by the Hong Kong Jockey Club as the exclusive partner sponsor for the city's segment of the upcoming National Games.
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These eye-catching structures, now prominent fixtures at the Central and Western District Promenade's central section and Kai Tak Station Square, serve as fresh iconic landmarks designed to rally community spirit ahead of Hong Kong's inaugural co-hosting of the 15th National Games, alongside the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and 9th National Special Olympic Games.
Born from a collaborative design competition between the National Games Coordination Office in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Institute of Architects, the installations aim to encapsulate the event's themes while blending art, sport, and local pride.
The ceremony drew top officials, including the Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law, the Jockey Club's deputy chairman Lester Huang, and architecture leaders, underscoring the project's role in merging culture, tourism, and sports for residents and visitors alike.
At the promenade stands a radiant tree sculpture with three stainless steel trunks sprouting from a unified base, symbolizing the prosperous interplay among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.
Its crown sparkles with recycled glass blooms—the cotton tree for Guangdong, bauhinia for Hong Kong, and lotus for Macao—evoking enduring bonds.
The creators include architects Stephen Ip Hay-fung, Keith Chan Chun-yu, Eric Ng Siu-cheong, Adwin Keung Shing-fung, Kathy Kan Po-ying, and Hannah Pang Hoi-ching.
Kai Tak Station Square features a massive six-meter sneaker paired with an enormous footprint, embodying athletes' grit and endurance.
The lone shoe promotes inclusive teamwork, while the print bears characters signifying unified resolve, highlighting the tri-regional partnership. This design comes from Dr. Chan Lai Kiu.
Complementing the landmarks, Central Market hosts a short exhibition of winning models and merit recipients through October 31.
Hands-on workshops on October 29, November 8, and November 15 across the sites invite the public to craft miniature crystal trees or decorate tiny sneakers.
The Jockey Club's backing surpasses HK$500 million, fueling volunteer efforts, citywide promotions, and access for disadvantaged youth in Hong Kong, plus equestrian expertise and equipment loans for Shenzhen events in Guangdong. Medalists will also receive cash awards via the Hong Kong Sports Institute.
These efforts not only hype the games but also transform public spaces into vibrant hubs of innovation and togetherness, inviting everyone to join the historic festivities.
