Live broadcasts help Hongkongers share in glory

People cheered at malls as they watched Hong Kong athletes take gold medals on the first day of the Asian Games being aired live from Hangzhou.

Rowing duo Lam San-tung and Wong Wai-chun were congratulated for bringing home the city's first gold.

"I could feel the athletes' concentration during the competition and their joy after winning ... I wish Hong Kong athletes [will] continue to shine," said Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung.

Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, chef de mission of the delegation, said the duo "displayed drive and determination during the competition."

At APM in Kwun Tong, spectators applauded the two rowers as they crossed the finish line. "In addition to the lively atmosphere ... live broadcasts in malls cultivate the public's interest in sports and increase visitor flow to malls," said mall goer Kwok.

At around 6pm yesterday, dozens gathered in Olympian City to watch the fencing semifinals live and cheered for fencing champion Edgar Cheung Ka-long.

A mall goer surnamed Tai brought his family to watch, saying his son was inspired by Cheung to learn fencing.

The tournament is broadcast live in 36 sports centers under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu watched the swimming contest yesterday in Hangzhou.

Former leader Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor was also at the Games.

The disciplinary services exchange group watched fencing and swimming competitions before returning to Hong Kong. "We hope the Hong Kong team will perform their best in the upcoming competitions," a Security Bureau Facebook post read.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com