Excitement builds for National Games bowling event at Kai Tak

Hong Kong will host its first National Games mass participation bowling competition this Friday at the Kai Tak Sports Park Bowling Centre, marking the start of regional events.

Ten local bowlers, including returning veterans Michael Mak Cheuk-yin and Lee Wing-yan, are determined to claim podium finishes - and potentially Hong Kong's first gold - in front of a home crowd.

Veterans return with championship dreams

The competition represents a special comeback for former national team members.

Lee, an eight-year retiree who previously represented Hong Kong in World Championships, described reuniting with her "Sisterhood" teammates as "like spirits reuniting."

Despite balancing full-time jobs, the women's team has maintained rigorous training since April's qualifiers, practicing evenings and weekends.

Mak, a former men's world trio champion who retired in 2023 from professional play, leads the "Brilliancy" men's team with longtime partners Kam Siu-lun and Leo Tse Chung-yin.

Still active in local leagues, Mak believes their chemistry gives them an edge: "We've set a top-three target across all events."

Hong Kong bowling star Wu Siu-hong, meanwhile, offered advice to his former teammates.

"Relax and enjoy the competition. The experience is already valuable for promoting bowling in Hong Kong."

All three athletes praised Kai Tak's world-class facilities, hoping they'll attract more international tournaments.

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Grassroots growth through mass participation

This year marks bowling's debut as a mass participation event in China's premier national sports competition, part of efforts to promote public fitness.

April's local qualifiers saw overwhelming interest, with 95 teams - nearly 500 participants - vying for spots - including many amateur league players and former champions.

Lee noted the fierce competition revealed hidden talent.

"Many participants are regular podium finishers in open tournaments - we couldn't afford any mistakes."

The 360 free tickets released last week were snapped up within hours, demonstrating strong public enthusiasm.

Looking ahead, Wu emphasized developing women's participation, countering misconceptions that bowling favors strength over precision.

Separately, Mak suggested hosting international stars at Kai Tak to boost visibility, with Lee hoping the Games will inspire broader recognition of bowling's potential as an Olympic sport.

The three-day competition begins Friday with singles, followed by doubles and concluding with team events.

For these athletes - some competing in their first and possibly only National Games - the home advantage offers a golden opportunity to make history.

Marco Lam (marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com)