Aaron Ho claims historic silver in men's sabre at National Games

Hong Kong fencer Aaron Ho Sze-long delivered the city's best-ever result in the men's individual sabre at the National Games on Saturday night, battling to a hard-fought silver medal after falling 15-7 to Shandong's Wei Zhenhao in the final at Kai Tak Arena.

The 30-year-old stormed through morning group stages, toppling a string of opponents to reach his first National Games final.

Facing a patient Wei who countered rather than initiated, Ho found himself trailing 8-1 early.

A tactical shift after the break narrowed the gap briefly, but Wei stayed composed and sealed the victory with steady defensive scoring.

Ho's runner-up finish marks a breakthrough for Hong Kong fencing at the National Games.

His silver medal in the men's sabre at the 15th National Games not only brought pride to Hong Kong but also earned him a HK$375,000 cash award under the Jockey Club Athlete Incentives Award Scheme.

The Jockey Club has poured more than HK$500 million into supporting the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, and the 9th National Special Olympic Games across Hong Kong and Guangdong venues, serving as the sole partner organization for the Hong Kong zone. 

Its contributions span volunteer programs, citywide community and school promotions, and special viewing experiences for underprivileged groups and youth. 

Nearly 100 Jockey Club volunteers also served as group volunteers in the Hong Kong zone.  

Hong Kong athletes medaling at these Games qualify for further Jockey Club-funded cash awards through the Hong Kong Sports Institute. 

Individual gold medallists receive HK$750,000, silver HK$375,000, and bronze HK$150,000, while team golds earn HK$1.5 million, silvers HK$750,000, and bronzes HK$300,000.