It's game on for security checks at Kai Tak trial event

Stacy Shi

Two dedicated security check channels will be established for spectators without backpacks to expedite the security process for the upcoming trial event at Kai Tak Sports Park on Saturday.

Commissioner for Sports George Tsoi Kin-pan said long umbrellas will not be permitted at the venue.

Tickets for the international rugby match between Hong Kong and Brazil, taking place at the 5,000-seat outdoor Youth Sports Ground, must be purchased online in advance, as there will be no on-site ticket sales.

Tsoi anticipates around 3,000 attendees, with over 2,000 tickets already sold.

The venue will open at 2pm for ticketing and security checks, with the match scheduled to kick off at 4pm.

Spectators are encouraged to take the MTR, as no parking will be available on-site.

Tsoi said the nearest drop-off point for taxis and private cars is Olympic Avenue, which is less convenient than using the MTR.

He also reminded attendees that long umbrellas, food and beverages are prohibited inside the venue.

In light of recent unstable weather conditions, the event will be canceled if Typhoon Signal No 8 or a black rainstorm warning is issued, with an announcement to be made by noon.

To facilitate crowd evacuation after the match, Principal Transport Officer Eric Wan Pak-yan stated that the MTR has prepared sufficient resources - including standby trains - to enhance service and crowd management.

He said the MTR could operate up to 24 trains per hour at Sung Wong Toi station, although this maximum frequency is not necessary for a 3,000-spectator event.

On Saturday, the MTR will run at normal frequency.

The MTR has also installed directional signs and markings at the Sung Wong Toi and Kai Tak stations, and additional staff and empty trains will be available to assist passengers.

Police will also provide enhanced signage in both Chinese and English, with larger font sizes and better lighting to guide spectators exiting the venue.

Looking ahead, Tsoi said that additional trial events at the indoor venue are planned for next month, including a basketball match, while test events for the 50,000-seat main stadium will take place in January.

The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau will also deploy 5,000 civil servants for a crowd management drill at the Youth Sports Ground on November 23.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com