Handball fans poured into Kai Tak Sports Park on Saturday, creating an electric atmosphere for the opening day of the men's National Games event.

It marks the first competition for the Games to be held at the Sports Park, placing the preliminary rounds in the spotlight.

Spectators expressed their excitement to RTHK about witnessing a major sporting event on home soil.

For many, like one fan, Kwong, the tournament is a rare opportunity.

"I bought tickets in advance already. When they were up for sale, I immediately bought them," she said, noting that the HK$100 price for a full day of action was very reasonable.

"The process for exchanging tickets on-site was very clear. We asked a volunteer and they immediately showed us the way. It was convenient and easy."

The sense of occasion was palpable.

Another attendee, Yip, came with a group of friends to cheer for the home team.

"The atmosphere is great. We purposely came to support the Hong Kong team. We brought our support today, and it's nice having all six of us together. I used to play handball, so I had to support the home team," she said.

For some, the event is also a valuable learning experience.

A parent, Lo, brought her daughter, saying the matches will be a great chance for her young one to learn about different sports and witness the athletes' strength and perseverance first-hand.

Outside the venue, the festive mood continued as visitors took photos with the National Games mascots and artworks installed throughout the competition village.

The tournament features approximately 180 athletes from 10 teams across the mainland, Hong Kong and Macau.

The 18-strong Hong Kong men's team will begin their campaign tonight at 8pm against Anhui.

They will compete in a challenging preliminary heat that also includes Shanghai, Macau and Beijing.