Mega-bridge bike races in the running for National Games

Authorities are exploring the possibility of organizing road bike races on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge for the upcoming National Games in November next year.

However, Yeung Tak-keung, the head of the National Games Coordination Office, said: "Marathon races on the mega bridge pose several challenges. Factors such as the nearly seven-kilometer-long tunnel and strong winds in the sea section need to be carefully considered, as they could potentially impact the athletes."

While the idea of holding the marathon on the bridge is currently not being considered, Yeung said that cycling events may be feasible with further research.

Yeung also said that alternative locations for the marathon event are being evaluated. "One option under consideration is the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Marathon, which will not traverse the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge but instead take place at other ports between Hong Kong and Shenzhen."

He said that a marathon between Shenzhen and Hong Kong was held more than 20 years ago, adding that the cooperation between the two cities has strengthened since then.

He expressed confidence in improved technology facilitating smoother border controls, relying more on technological advancements rather than traditional methods. Yeung expects that immigration processes and athlete accreditation will be handled more efficiently than in the past.

Meanwhile, the Kai Tak Sports Park, slated to open next year, is committed to creating an environmentally friendly venue for the National Games.

The sports park plans to implement various green and sustainable measures to assist Hong Kong in achieving its energy and climate policy target of reducing carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2035.

Notable features of the park include a 14-hectare open space with green roofs, contributing to a low-carbon design. Also, over 10 percent of the roofing areas will be equipped with solar panels, generating renewable energy for hot water and electricity.

These panels are expected to reduce energy consumption by at least one percent annually, resulting in a significant decrease in carbon emissions.

To enhance energy efficiency, the park will utilize chilled water supplied by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department's District Cooling System for air conditioning purposes.

Also, a rainwater harvesting system will be implemented to meet 25 percent of the total irrigation demand, promoting comprehensive waste management practices.

Meanwhile, the 9th Hong Kong Games commenced with an opening ceremony at the Hong Kong Coliseum in Hung Hom. Over 4,600 athletes will compete in eight events, including track and field and badminton, over the next two months.