Hong Kong’s Para athletes have achieved remarkable success in major multi-sports games in recent years, capturing public attention through their outstanding performances and indomitable spirit. In preparation for the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee, in collaboration with Hong Kong Noah’s Ark, hosted the “Inclusive Para Sports Day 2024 & Paris 2024 Paralympic Games100 Days countdown” event today (May 17) at Ma Wan. The event featured a countdown ceremony to mark 100 days to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, starting the buildup to this eagerly anticipated international event. Additionally, the event offered athlete presentations and various para-sport trials, enabling about 150 students from special schools to discover their potential and interest in sports.
The opening ceremony of the “Inclusive Para Sports Day 2024 & Countdown to Paris 2024 Paralympics – 100 Days” was attended by several guests and athletes who promoted inclusivity in sports and showcased the unique spirit of the athletic community. This third edition of the “Inclusive Para Sports Day” included distinguished guests such as Mr. Thomas Kwok, Senior Director of Sun Hung Kai Properties; Ms. Jenny Fung, SBS BBS JP, President of the China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee; Mr. Zhu Jianping, Director of Sports at the Publicity, Culture, and Sports Department of the Liaison Office; Mr. Cheng Wing shun, MH JP, member of the Legislative Council Panel on Home Affairs and Culture, Sports; Dr. John Leung, Vice President of the China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee and Chef de mission for the Hong Kong China delegation at the Paris Paralympic Games; Wheelchair fencing athlete Yu Chui Yee, BBS MH; Boccia athlete Ho Yuen Kei; track and field athlete Chong Hing Yuen; and representatives from special schools. The event began with a torch relay that conveyed the values of the Paralympic movement and welcomed the countdown to 100 days until the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
President Ms. Jenny Fung expressed during her opening speech, “The Hong Kong China Delegation will compete at the end of August in Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This event specially invited representatives of the Hong Kong China Delegation to interact and share their experiences with students from special schools, hoping to inspire courage and determination and spark the students’ interest in sports, encouraging them to join the ranks of athletes.”
Mr. Thomas Kwok of Sun Hung Kai Properties expressed his honour in promoting inclusivity and the development of disability sports, stating, “Sports transcend age, gender, and physical condition, allowing everyone, whether able-bodied or disabled, to enjoy the fun of sports while fostering mutual understanding and respect.” He also praised the Hong Kong Para athletes for their unparalleled determination and said, “The athletes representing Hong Kong, China embody the values of courage, determination, inspiration, and equality of the Paralympic movement, bringing positive energy to Hong Kong. I believe all the athletes will give their best and make Hong Kong proud. Wishing all athletes a victorious return!”
The event also featured Wheelchair fencer Yu Chui Yee, who will be competing in her sixth Paralympic Games, Boccia athlete Ho Yuen Kei, who won a silver medal in the mixed pairs BC3 at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games, and track and field athlete Chong Kung Yuen, who twice set personal bests during preliminaries in Tianjin. They shared their memorable experiences from major sports competitions and encouraged special school students to try various sports and discover their interests.
The “Inclusive Para Sports Day” provided opportunities for special school students to break barriers by participating in Para sports trials, including Wheelchair fencing, Para table tennis, Sitting volleyball, Wheelchair tennis, Special Olympics Bocce, and Para Rowing, allowing students to explore and experience sports while uncovering their athletic potential.
