Hong Kong, China is set to make its seventh consecutive Winter Olympics appearance next month, with the delegation relying on young blood to shine at the world's biggest sporting stage.

Since 2002, the SAR has been represented at every Winter Games, with athletes from the subtropical city battling challenges such as limited training opportunities.

But that didn't dampen the spirit of a pair of short-track speed skaters, as they prepare to step on the rink in Italy with high ambitions.

Meet Joey Lam, a 19-year-old debutant who said she's dreamt of competing in the Olympics since she picked up the sport at eight.

"I hoped to qualify for the Olympics four years ago, but I made some mistakes back then, possibly due to a lack of experience and ability, and missed my chance at the Olympics," she said.

Finally punching her ticket this time, Lam has set her sights on a top-20 finish in the women's 1,500m.

"Adjusting my mindset during competition, I'm still quite bad at it. That's why I wish to study psychology at university and help peers like me in the future," she said.

Lam also thanked her coach Sun Dandan, a two-time Olympic silver medallist, for showing great care and patience.

Teammate Kwok Tsz-fung is also a first-time Olympian.

He has previously represented Hong Kong in major events, most recently the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, finishing eighth in the men's 1,000m.

"Competing with the world's top athletes in such a prestigious event is quite nerve-wracking," he said.

"Even though I may face the same opponents, the significance is different due to the scale of the event. The pressure feels greater compared to other competitions."

Kwok hopes to refresh his personal best at the Olympics. He views skaters from the national team, Canada and South Korea as his strongest rivals.

"Short-track speed skating tests not only physical strength but also willpower and tactics," he said.

"Time may not be an absolute benchmark in a single competition, but in such a high-level competition, I hope to achieve a good time."

The 2026 Milano-Cortina Games will be held from February 6 to 22.