Twenty-seven teams from across the country took part in the opening ceremony of the 15th National Games bowling competition on Thursday at the Kai Tak Sports Park Bowling Centre.

The national anthem was played before Hong Kong bowler Rickle Kam led the athletes in taking the oath, while Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Vivian Sum declared the competition open.

The three-day finals will begin on Friday, the only mass participation event of the Games to be staged in Hong Kong.

Speaking after the ceremony, Kam said he was honoured to compete at the new Kai Tak venue.

He added that the local squad had undergone training to adapt to the lanes and hopes to reach the podium.

Hong Kong women’s representative Chloe Lee said she was excited about the competition, describing herself as ready to perform at her best.

The schedule includes men’s and women’s singles matches on the first day, doubles on the second, and five-player team events on the final day.