Test runs set for National Games

Henry Siu

Test events for next year's National Games will begin in November as Hong Kong prepares to host eight competitions, according to Yeung Tak-keung, head of the National Games Coordination Office.

Hong Kong, Macau and Guangdong will jointly host the 15th National Games from November 9 to 21 next year.

Events to be held here will include fencing, track cycling, rugby sevens, golf, triathlon, beach volleyball, men's handball and under-22 men's basketball.

Yeung said golf will be the first test event.

Also, Hong Kong will host a non-competitive bowling event at Kai Tak Sports Park in August.

Yeung said discussions are ongoing regarding marathon routes, as these events are typically held across the border.

Yeung said judges here are well equipped to handle rugby sevens, track cycling and golf events but will require support from the mainland for handball and other competitions.

He gave the reassurance that judge selections will be fair and transparent amid discussions with sports associations on the issue.

On accommodations, he said Kai Tak's isolation facilities are unsuitable as athletes need access to gyms and meeting rooms.

Also, athletes have specific dietary needs, such as halal options, making hotels more appropriate.

"Athletes need to stay within a half-hour commute to sports venues," he said. "Hotels in Kowloon East, Kowloon West and parts of the New Territories would be suitable."

Yeung also said that while Hongkongers tend to focus more on the Olympics, he aims to hold a carnival to attract public interest to the National Games.

"In the mainland, people pay greater attention to the National Games as they serve as preparations for the Olympics three years later, with events closely aligned with Olympic competitions," Yeung said.

He expressed hope that the public would engage with the Games, especially since it will be held in Hong Kong and nearby areas in the Greater Bay Area.

Yeung was speaking amid news that George Tsoi Kin-pan has taken over as commissioner for sports following the resignation of Sam Wong Tak-sum.

Yeung, who was the first commissioner, said civil servants' understanding of sports should not be underestimated.

However, having individuals with a sports background in government, regardless of their position, could significantly enhance local sports development.

"Sports knowledge or background is invaluable during the policy-making process," Yeung said. "However, a successful sports commissioner should also possess public administration experience. The ideal scenario is for a sports commissioner to have both sets of skills."