The 15th National Games are just 365 days away, and the countdown ceremony in Hong Kong marked the beginning of the celebrations on Saturday. This will be the first time that Hong Kong is co-hosting the Games, along with Guangdong and Macau. It is also the first time that the National Games will have multiple host cities.
Hong Kong will host eight out of the 34 competitive events, including fencing, track cycling, rugby sevens, golf, triathlon, beach volleyball, men’s handball, and men’s under-22 basketball. Chief Executive John Lee expressed the government’s dedication to preparing for the Games, with trial runs set to begin this month. He believes that the multi-host cities approach will enhance cooperation within the Greater Bay Area.
The Greater Bay Area development is a crucial part of the country’s new development framework. By coming together to host the Games, Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau are strengthening their collaboration in various sectors such as culture, sports, economy, and society. This collaboration aims to promote high-quality development across the Greater Bay Area and work towards establishing a world-class Bay Area.
Apart from the National Games, Hong Kong will also host four competitive events for the National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the National Special Olympic Games in December next year. The government plans to raise awareness and excitement for these events through banners, exhibitions, and community and school activities. Additionally, there will be more volunteer positions available for the Games, with an overwhelming response from the community.
The upcoming National Games will mark Hong Kong’s eighth participation in the countrywide competition, where the city has already secured 47 medals, including 11 gold. The countdown ceremony in Guangzhou also took place at the Haixinsha Asian Games Park, where the mayors of Guangzhou and Macau emphasized their commitment to organizing a safe, simple, and amazing event. Guangzhou will focus on a green, shared, open, and connected approach to ensure the success of the Games.
