Hong Kong, China is sending 84 athletes to this year’s Asian Beach Games (ABG), which returns after a decade-long absence.

The sixth edition of the Games will take place from April 22 to 30 in Sanya, Hainan, marking the second time China has hosted the event.

The SAR delegation will compete in eight sports: open water swimming, water polo, 3x3 basketball, beach athletics, beach handball, dragon boat, windsurfing and aquathlon.

At a flag presentation ceremony on Monday, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law highlighted the importance of the ABG as a key training opportunity ahead of the Asian Games in September.

"It is worth noting that the Asian Beach Games include many sports that are also regularly seen in the Asian Games," she said.

"Therefore, by participating in these Asian Beach Games, our Hong Kong, China athletes can use this competition as training before the Asian Games in September — testing their preparation and adjusting their physical and mental state through practice.

"I believe this Asian Beach Games will surely bring us a series of high-level, exciting competitions, and will serve as a strong prelude to the Asian Games."

During the ceremony, Law presented the regional flag to the delegation’s chef de mission Yeung Wing-sun.

She said the handover signified that the athletes are ready to set off, carrying the support and expectations of the people of Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, Timothy Fok, President of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, noted that this year’s delegation includes both experienced athletes and promising newcomers.

He expressed hope that the team would bring home strong results.

Fok also announced that the two flag bearers for the Hong Kong delegation would be open water swimmer Rita Nip and windsurfer Curtis Ho.

Nip called the role a precious opportunity.

"Though it is my first time competing at the Asian Beach Games, I have a lot of previous experience from other competitions so I will approach ABG in a calm manner," she said.

Ho, who at 16 is the youngest member of the delegation, shared his enthusiasm for carrying the flag.

"I am very happy I get to be a flag bearer because I know these opportunities are hard to come by. I will cherish this chance," he said.

"I also need to learn to build my confidence, especially when I lead the SAR delegation onto the stage."


Edited by Tony Sabine