The Paris 2024 Olympic Games has caught the imagination of everyone in Hong Kong.
Vivian Kong Man-wai won a gold medal in the women's epee individual fencing, capping off an illustrious career and three Olympic appearances.
Her subsequent decision to retire marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire aspiring athletes in Hong Kong and beyond.
Two days later, fencer Edgar Cheung Ka-long secured a second Olympic gold medal in the men's foil individual event, cementing his status as a two-time champion after his previous gold medal success at the Tokyo Olympics.
Siobhan Haughey also made the city proud by winning bronze medals in the 100-meter and 200-meter freestyle swimming events.
She was also our first swimmer to win an Olympic medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021 and the first Hong Kong athlete to win two in any sport.
The Olympic Games embody the highest ideals of international competition and sportsmanship.
At the heart of the Olympic spirit lies the fundamental belief in the transformative power of sport to unite people, foster mutual understanding and create a sense of unity that transcends all boundaries.
While Hong Kong may not be a traditional Olympic powerhouse, our performances at the Games have been a testament to our growing commitment to sports development.
Over the decades, we have steadily improved, showcasing our potential and making our mark on the global sports stage.
The Hong Kong Sports Institute has been instrumental in developing our elite athletes, providing world-class facilities, coaching and support services since its establishment in 1982.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and specialized training programs, the institute is shaping our next generation of Olympic champions, instilling confidence in the future of Hong Kong in the global sports arena.
Another great achievement is that China's athletes are raking in the medals at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, securing 21 golds, 18 silvers and 14 bronzes at the time of writing, putting them close to the top of the table.
What better time for us all to remember that the spirit of sportsmanship is about life skills, the embodiment of respect, fair play, and camaraderie?
We must celebrate the process and the journey, not simply the result.
Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of
Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd