Herman Hu, a former vice-president of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, told RTHK in an exclusive interview in Beijing that the organisers had “learned a lesson” after spectators were booted before the end of a match.
The newly-opened Kai Tak Sports Park – the venue from where fans enjoying the World Snooker Grand Prix were ejected – is set to host a number of National Games competitions.
“I’m quite sure that [the Kai Tak Sports Park] is already ready,” said Hu.
Speaking on the sidelines of the “Two Sessions” in the capital, he said organisers could learn from what happened during the snooker tournament.
“That is not a big problem. I’m sure all the people concerned have ways to tackle that,” Hu said.
Over 13 days later this year, Hong Kong will host the nation’s top athletes in cycling, fencing, rugby sevens, beach volleyball, golf, triathlon, men’s handball and men’s under-22 basketball.
Hu urged officials to better promote these sports and educate the public on “how to appreciate” the competitions, such as organising district tournaments.
Additionally, the SAR will help organise cross-border events, including a marathon and road cycling competition.
According to Hu, there was room for further collaboration with counterparts across the border.
“I personally had a conversation with the Guangdong province’s sports bureau and they welcome us to go there anytime. And especially they have a lot more facilities and high-quality coaches, world-class athletes, that can work with our youngsters,” Hu said.
Zhaoqing, one of nine municipalities which make up the Greater Bay Area along with Hong Kong and Macau, will kick-start test events in May.
In a written response to RTHK, Zhaoqing mayor Xu Xiaoxiong said the authorities were fully pushing forward preparatory work “in a state similar to a 100-metre sprint”.
Xu also said the Games could attract 150,000 spectators and tourists to the city, bringing in hundreds of millions of yuan.
Authorities from Shantou, a coastal city in eastern Guangdong which will also get a piece of the action, saw the Games as an “important opportunity” to promote regional cooperation and enhance its influence.
