Olympians' visits help promote sports in Bay Area

Representatives from various sectors said visits from Chinese mainland Olympic champions to Hong Kong and Macao highlighted the central government's support for the special administrative regions and will further promote the integrated development of sports in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Led by Gao Zhidan, president of the Chinese Olympic Committee, 65 mainland Olympians — including 59 gold medalists from the Paris Olympic Games — visited the cities from Thursday to Monday. The visits were part of a longstanding tradition of mainland Olympic medalists touring Hong Kong and Macao after the Summer Olympics to demonstrate the Olympic spirit and engage with local communities.

Lau Kam-ling, chairwoman of the Women's General Association of Macao, emphasized the significance of the visit to the city, noting that it coincided with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to Chinese sovereignty.

"This fully demonstrates the nation's care and support for the special administrative region, allowing Macao residents to witness the excellence of national elite athletes, share the joy of victory and experience the nation's glory," she said.

Macao Chief Executive Ho Iat-seng acknowledged the progress of Macao's sports industry in recent years, attributing it to continued support from the central government.

He expressed optimism about further enhancing the region's sports sector by leveraging the expertise and resources of national sports talent.

During the visit to Macao, the delegation's packed itinerary included sports demonstrations, interactive activities with local athletes and young people, and friendly table tennis matches.

Ma Long, whose gold medal in the men's team table tennis event at the Paris Games took his Olympic gold medal haul since 2012 to a Chinese record of six, gave advice to young people on overcoming challenges.

"When you find a career you love, you will give it your all to excel," he said. "I am grateful for the support provided by the country, and my coaches, family and friends have always been helping and encouraging me."

The athletes were met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from residents at every stop.

"When we got off the plane, we were very impressed, and everyone here was very hospitable," said Zheng Siwei, who captured gold at the Paris Games in the mixed doubles badminton competition. "I feel that people in Hong Kong have a passion for badminton, so I believe they have a bright future."

Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, vice-president of the Sports Federation& Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, praised the athletes' engagement with the public on social media.

"All athletes were spirited, energetic and friendly, and their interactions with Hong Kong residents were very warm," he said.

The visits are expected to contribute significantly to the integrated development of the Greater Bay Area, where anticipation is growing for the 15th National Games, which will be jointly hosted by Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao in November next year.

Timothy Fok Tsun-ting, president of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, expressed excitement about the National Games, highlighting their potential to enhance sports exchanges and cooperation across the area.

Dave Ho, executive vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Volunteers Association, reflected on the warmth and hospitality he received from mainland volunteers at the 14th National Games, which were held in Shaanxi province in 2021.

He said the mainland Olympians' visit to Hong Kong this time provided an opportunity for local volunteers to gain experience, which will come in handy for next year's National Games.

Contact the writers at zhangyi1@chinadaily.com.cn