Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kevin Yeung Yun-hung (incorrect name—original text uses Lo Suk-ping, let’s use the correct name from the input and attribute the title accurately) Lo Suk-ping, today lauded swimmer Siobhan Haughey’s commanding performance after she secured a gold medal in the women’s 200-meter freestyle at the 15th National Games, an event co-hosted in the Greater Bay Area. Speaking on Thursday, Secretary Lo praised Haughey’s “extraordinary strength and unwavering determination,” noting that the swimmer’s victory showcased the elite caliber of Hong Kong athletes on a national stage.
The gold medal marks a significant achievement for the Hong Kong delegation, representing the swimming team’s first gold medal and the territory’s third overall gold at the current National Games, breaking previous records for the total number of gold medals won by the Hong Kong contingent.
A Witness to Excellence and Record-Breaking Achievements
Secretary Lo expressed shared pride with the city’s residents, extending best wishes for Haughey in her remaining events. The official later shared her personal excitement on social media, recounting that she had personally witnessed Haughey’s race at the Shenzhen Universiade Center Natatorium. Lo described Haughey as leading the race “from start to finish” with apparent ease, confirming the swimmer’s return to peak form.
Beyond the aquatic success, Lo highlighted other notable achievements, particularly congratulating the men’s rugby sevens team, which advanced to the finals after defeating Jiangsu in the semi-finals. Having watched earlier matches for both the U22 men’s basketball and the rugby sevens teams, Lo expressed confidence in the rugby squad, urging them to “fight with increasing courage” and bring further glory to Hong Kong.
The Hong Kong delegation has currently amassed four medals—three gold and one bronze—across sailing, cycling, tennis, and swimming events at the multi-sport competition.
Addressing Athlete Support and Olympic Ambitions
The Secretary also provided an update on the pressing issue of training facilities for local sports teams. Following a spirited performance by the Hong Kong men’s handball team—which secured a best-ever fourth-place finish at the Kai Tak Sports Park—Lo had previously promised assistance with training venues.
Addressing the urgency of the matter, Lo explained that pursuing permanent stadium construction immediately would not address the team’s immediate needs. However, she confirmed fruitful discussions with the Sports Commissioner and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), underscoring that progress has been made and expressing optimism for a timely resolution to the venue shortage.
Looking toward the future, the Secretary addressed comments made by International Olympic Committee Honorary President Thomas Bach, who suggested the Greater Bay Area possesses all the necessary conditions to potentially bid for the Olympic Games. Lo welcomed the high praise, expressing gratitude and declaring that following the highly effective collaboration demonstrated in organizing this “simple, safe, and spectacular” National Games, “nothing is truly impossible” concerning future large-scale international sporting bids.
Secretary Lo concluded by acknowledging the guidance from the General Administration of Sport of China, along with the tireless efforts of all colleagues, sports associations, volunteers, and venue staff involved in the Hong Kong-hosted segments of the National Games. The positive feedback from athletes and coaches across all provinces affirmed the successful execution of the events. Lo affirmed the city’s continued commitment to organizing excellent sporting fixtures, urging robust support for athletes to allow them to “play to their strengths and enjoy the competition.”
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