Hong Kong, China is sending 580 athletes to the Asian Games in Nagoya this month, with Chief Executive John Lee expressing confidence on Tuesday that they can surpass the achievements of past contingents.

He was speaking after officially handing the SAR flag to the contingent at an event hosted by the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC).

In his address, Lee highlighted the outstanding performances of Hong Kong athletes in past Asian Games, particularly at the last edition in Hangzhou, where they secured a record haul of eight gold, 16 silver and 29 bronze medals.

He voiced his strong belief that the team would carry forward the fighting spirit they demonstrated at last year’s National Games, giving their all on the Asian stage and striving for even better results – bringing further glory to both the nation and Hong Kong.

"Every high-level competition is not only a test of the athletes' skills and willpower but also an opportunity for people from different countries and regions to deepen mutual understanding and forge friendships," Lee said.

"The resilience and never-say-die spirit displayed by athletes from Hong Kong, China, on the field are the best embodiment of the Hong Kong spirit.

"They can transcend linguistic and cultural boundaries, showcasing our confidence and soft power to the world, and telling the good stories of the nation and of Hong Kong."

Committee president Timothy Fok said this year’s Games, which will be held across multiple cities, pose certain logistical challenges.

Nevertheless, he gave the reassurance that the SF&OC would serve as a solid pillar of support for the athletes, coordinating with relevant parties to ensure they are well taken care of off the field and can focus on delivering strong performances.

Speaking after the ceremony, the contingent's chef de mission, Wong Po-kee, noted that there are 90 fewer athletes this time round compared with the one sent to Hangzhou in 2023.

He pointed out that no athletes are fielded this time in some of the events where medals were won previously.

Still, Hong Kong, China is setting the goal of achieving results roughly on par with the last edition.

Wong added that most of the athletes would depart for Japan on September 16 and 18.

As for the flag bearer arrangements for the opening ceremony, he said those details have yet to be discussed.

One of the athletes representing the SAR is star fencer Edgar Cheung.

The two-time Olympic champion and reigning Asian Games men's individual foil gold medallist said he's approaching the tournament with his usual training routine.

"As for my goal, I hope that we can win a gold medal in the team event because we've already taken silver and bronze before, so I'm hoping that we can have a breakthrough this time," he said.

"I also want to carry the confidence from our World Championships silver and turn it into Asian Games gold."

His teammate Ryan Choi, meanwhile, said he will be taking extra caution over the next two weeks as he recovers from an injury, aiming to step onto the piste in peak condition.




Edited by Edmond Fong