Editorial | Olympians win again by bringing pride and unity to excited Hong Kong
Trip by members of China team to Hong Kong, which is still celebrating its heroes, proves ideal occasion to promote sports and national identity
Hong Kong’s sporting enthusiasm has been rekindled by visiting members of the national Olympic team. The much-anticipated three-day spectacle of shows, demonstrations and exchanges by athletes for the local community has proved an ideal occasion to promote sport and foster national pride and identity.
The delegation to Hong Kong and neighbouring Macau has lifted community spirits and enabled residents to see the medallists in action. This was reflected in the cheers and support they received wherever they went. Coming so soon after the team achieved their best medal-winning performance abroad in the Paris Summer Games, with 40 gold, 27 silver and 24 bronze, the visit proved especially meaningful.
The trip is the seventh of its kind since the return of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. The arrangement underlines not only the special status of the two cities under one “country, two systems”, but also the care and support of the central government.
Unlike the post-Tokyo Olympic Games tour in 2021 that was still conducted under Covid-19 restrictions, the athletes this time were able to meet bigger crowds and interact with more sectors, including the disciplinary forces. After attending official functions on Thursday, the visitors had engagements with local athletes and disciplinary officers on Friday, before joining a gala show in the evening.
The delegation moved on to Macau yesterday following the exciting demonstrations at Queen Elizabeth Stadium and Victoria Park swimming pool. The packed schedule included visits to popular landmarks and attractions, which are also good ways to help promote tourism.
As in the past, the engagement and interaction provided a welcome opportunity to nurture national pride, unity and identity for Hongkongers. But there were also words of inspiration and encouragement for local youth. “If you are interested [in something], then pursue it. Don’t be afraid of failure,” said 17-year-old Quan Hongchan, holder of three diving gold medals in total from the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. The champions also shared their appreciation for the city and cravings for local cuisine.
