Author: Satoshi Nakamoto

HONG KONG, June 22 — A late-night dispute between a couple at Hong Kong’s Hoi Sum Park escalated dramatically into a sea rescue early Friday morning, after the woman reportedly jumped into the water following an emotional argument. Both individuals were saved after passersby quickly intervened and alerted authorities.

The incident unfolded around midnight along the waterfront promenade in Tu Kwu Wan. According to initial police reports, a couple discussing relationship issues grew increasingly agitated when the woman, apparently overwhelmed by emotion, suddenly leaped into the sea. Her partner immediately followed, attempting to pull her back to the safety of the seawall.

Bystanders Facilitate Rapid Response

The swift actions of local residents proved crucial in preventing a potential tragedy. Witnesses noticed the commotion and the two people struggling near the shore. They quickly threw life rings into the water to help stabilize the couple while simultaneously contacting emergency services.

When first responders—including police and firefighters—arrived on the scene, they found the couple partially submerged. Rescue personnel successfully extracted both individuals from the water. Both were conscious and appeared physically unharmed, though clearly distressed, before being stabilized and transported by ambulance to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.

While police are investigating the precise cause of the event, preliminary information suggests the precipitating factor was a heated argument concerning their relationship, leading the woman to an impulsive and extremely dangerous decision.

The Peril of Impulse in Public Spaces

Incidents involving emotional distress played out in public spaces underscore the heightened need for mental health awareness and immediate crisis intervention resources in densely populated areas. Hoi Sum Park, a popular public space known for its scenic harbor views, is generally a place for quiet reflection, contrasting sharply with the chaotic scene that unfolded in the darkness.

“When witnessing someone in distress near the waterfront, the instinct to help is strong, but bystanders must prioritize safety,” said a representative from a local emergency preparedness group, speaking on background. “The priority should always be calling 999 immediately and using readily available flotation devices if possible, rather than entering the water yourself without training.”

This incident highlights the vital role that immediate community action plays in emergency situations, particularly those occurring rapidly on the water’s edge.

Support Systems and Next Steps

While the physical injuries to the couple were minor, the emotional trauma associated with such a high-stakes emergency is significant. Authorities are expected to offer psychological support services to both individuals following their release from medical care.

Mental health experts emphasize that escalating relationship conflicts can often trigger severe emotional responses. Resources are readily available in Hong Kong for individuals facing emotional crises or contemplating self-harm.

• Seek Immediate Help: If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact a local mental health hotline immediately.
• Non-Emergency Support: Organizations like The Samaritans Hong Kong (2896 0000) offer confidential listening services 24 hours a day.

Police will continue their investigation into the circumstances of the dispute and the subsequent rescue, but the early intervention of local residents ensured that a painful argument did not turn fatal. The quick application of community vigilance and emergency protocols ultimately preserved two lives.

The 15th National Games of China concluded Friday evening with an elaborate closing ceremony in Shenzhen, marking the successful completion of the first edition jointly hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Following the event, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms. Rowena Law Shuk-pui, expressed profound gratitude to the organizing teams and celebrated the seamless execution and enthusiastic public response across the region.

In a retrospective social media post, Ms. Law reflected on “unforgettable historical moments” from the Games, noting how quickly the competition seemed to pass. She emphasized her deep satisfaction with Hong Kong’s role as a co-host, stating that the operational fluidity, the exceptional performance of the Hong Kong team, and the palpable public fervor exceeded her highest expectations.

Cross-Borders Collaboration Praised by Tourism Chief

The 15th National Games, a quadrennial multi-sport event, represented a significant undertaking in regional cooperation. Ms. Law singled out the dedication of the 15th National Games Coordination Office, acknowledging their relentless two-year effort. This core team collaborated closely with numerous government departments, various collaborative partners, sponsors, and volunteer groups, all operating under the guidance of the General Administration of Sport of China and the Games Organizing Committee.

“I must thank the Coordination Office for their non-stop efforts over the past two years,” Law wrote. “Working alongside countless government departments and partners, they delivered these Games, earning universal acclaim. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed.”

The co-hosting arrangement was heralded by organizers as a testament to the deepening integration within the Greater Bay Area. The smooth running of multiple events across three distinct jurisdictions, involving intricate logistics and cross-border coordination, was a key metric of the Games’ success.

Focus Shifts to Upcoming Para Games

The conclusion of the main event signals a brief pause before attention shifts to the Paralympic Games and Special Olympics (known as the National Para Games and Special Olympics), which immediately follow the National Games.

Ms. Law indicated that the teams will quickly regroup to ensure the same high standards are met for the upcoming events involving athletes with disabilities. “We will take a moment to recover before redoubling our efforts to successfully host the Para Games and Special Olympics,” she affirmed.

Experts suggest the success of the 15th National Games is likely to pave the way for similar large-scale integrated events in the future. The ability of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao to jointly manage a complex international-level sporting competition provides a robust framework for regional governance and shared strategic goals in culture and sport. Furthermore, the significant engagement from the public sphere underscores the viability of high-profile sporting events in fostering community spirit and regional identity.

The high praise for the organizational structure, particularly the role played by the thousands of volunteers and support staff, highlights the invaluable human element in orchestrating such a massive sporting festival. The positive reception assures that the collective planning model will be scrutinized and potentially replicated for future collaboration in the region.

A 70-year-old woman succumbed to severe injuries four days after being struck by a commercial van in the Tsz Wan Shan neighborhood of Hong Kong, prompting a police investigation into the driver for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle. The incident, which occurred last Monday morning near the junction of Shung Wah Street and Wan Wah Street, has rekindled concerns about pedestrian safety for elderly residents in densely populated urban areas.

The victim, identified by her surname Lai, was reportedly crossing the road on Monday, November 17th, at approximately 10 a.m. when she was hit by a light goods vehicle traveling eastward on Shung Wah Street. Ms. Lai sustained critical head injuries and was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in a state of unconsciousness. Despite intense medical efforts over several days, police confirmed that she passed away Thursday morning, November 21st, around 11 a.m.

Authorities swiftly launched an inquiry immediately following the collision. The driver of the minivan, a 52-year-old man identified by his surname Ho, was initially arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm. Following Ms. Lai’s death, police are expected to review the charges as the investigation continues.

Focus on Urban Pedestrian Vulnerability

This tragic loss underscores the heightened risks faced by older pedestrians in Hong Kong, a city known for its narrow roads and heavy traffic volume. Collisions involving vulnerable road users, defined as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, often result in more severe outcomes, particularly for senior citizens whose physical resilience may be compromised.

Road safety advocates frequently point to intersections lacking adequate crossing signals or utilizing confusing traffic patterns as disproportionately hazardous areas. While details about the exact circumstances of the Tsz Wan Shan crash remain under investigation, the location is a busy confluence of residential and commercial activity.

“Every incident like this demands a meticulous review of road design, speed limits, and enforcement strategies in residential areas,” stated Dr. Chen Wai-kit, a transportation safety expert specializing in urban planning, who was not involved in this case. “In districts like Tsz Wan Shan, where the elderly population is significant, small changes—such as clearer signage or slightly extended light cycles for pedestrians—can dramatically reduce the risk of fatalities.”

Police Urge Drivers to Exercise Extreme Caution

The Hong Kong Police Force has consistently stressed the need for drivers to maintain utmost vigilance, especially when traversing residential streets. Dangerous driving, defined by local ordinances as operating a vehicle in a manner that falls far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver, carries serious legal penalties, particularly if it results in death or serious injury.

This incident marks another somber statistic in a year demanding greater attention to road mortality rates, prompting calls for renewed public campaigns on both driver accountability and pedestrian awareness. Authorities are appealing to potential witnesses who may have seen the collision on Shung Wah Street to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. The driver remains cooperating with law enforcement as police gather further evidence regarding the cause of the fatal accident.

The legal proceedings against the arrested driver are anticipated to move forward once the investigation concludes, highlighting the judicial system’s role in setting precedents for road safety standards across the territory.

Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) confirmed two new imported cases of Chikungunya fever Wednesday, underscoring the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses for travelers returning from affected regions, particularly mainland China. Both cases involve middle-aged women who recently visited destinations in Guangdong Province and developed symptoms shortly after their return.

The first patient, a 53-year-old woman residing in Cheung Hang Estate, Tsing Yi, traveled to Zhongshan, Guangdong, between November 2 and 4. She sought emergency care at Princess Margaret Hospital on Tuesday after experiencing joint pain, a rash since Monday, and a subsequent fever.

The second confirmed case is a 60-year-old woman from Greenview Garden, Tsing Yi, who had visited Shenzhen, Guangdong, on November 17. She presented to the Yan Chai Hospital emergency department on Tuesday after developing joint pain on Monday, followed by a rash the next day.

Blood tests for both women confirmed the presence of the Chikungunya virus. Health authorities reported that both patients are in stable condition and have been admitted for isolation and treatment in a mosquito-free environment.

Contact Tracing and Medical Surveillance Underway

Preliminary epidemiological investigations suggest both infections were acquired abroad, classifying them as imported cases. The CHP is coordinating with Guangdong health authorities regarding the findings.

In the 53-year-old patient’s case, three household contacts and five travel companions who went to Zhongshan are being monitored, though none currently show symptoms. For the 60-year-old patient, two household contacts and a travel partner who accompanied her to Shenzhen are under medical surveillance. Crucially, one individual from the latter group, who exhibits minor joint pain, has been referred to an emergency department for testing.

Understanding Chikungunya and Travel Risks

Chikungunya fever is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. While rarely fatal, the disease is characterized by sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain, often lasting weeks or months.

This recent detection highlights the constant vigilance required against vector-borne diseases in a globalized city like Hong Kong. The CHP urges travelers returning from endemic areas to remain vigilant for symptoms such as rash, fever, and persistent joint pain, and to seek immediate medical attention if they arise.

Separate Imported Dengue Fever Case Noted

In a separate announcement, the CHP also reported one imported case of Dengue fever recorded between November 14 and Tuesday. The patient had a travel history to India during the incubation period.

The recent case brings the total number of imported Dengue fever infections in Hong Kong this year to 54. Health data up to Tuesday indicates a total of 161 Dengue fever cases have been recorded in 2024, comprising 156 imported cases and five locally acquired infections.

Preventive Measures for Travelers:

• Apply Repellent: Use insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin.
• Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.
• Secure Living Spaces: Ensure windows and doors are fitted with effective screens, especially when staying in rural or less developed areas.
• Eliminate Standing Water: Prevent mosquito breeding by removing stagnant water sources both indoors and outdoors.

The CHP continues its epidemiological investigation to ensure all potential vectors and contacts are identified and managed appropriately.

Officials from Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao formally concluded the 15th National Games (known as the Quanjunhui), successfully handing over the torch to the next host province, Hunan, following a joint staging that underscored deeper Greater Bay Area integration. The closing ceremony, held in Shenzhen on Monday evening, featured the transfer of the games’ flag and heralded the culmination of a major sporting event that was described by organizers as both “simple, safe, and splendid.”

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee attended the ceremony alongside National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Chairman Wang Huning, praising the collective effort of the three jurisdictions after they jointly hosted the multisport event for the first time. In a statement released shortly after the proceedings, Mr. Lee credited the central government’s trust and the robust support from the General Administration of Sport for enabling the integrated approach, which he stated “jointly composed a new chapter in the integrated development of the Greater Bay Area.”

Hong Kong Teams Achieve Record Medal Haul

The successful execution of the games was matched by the exceptional performance of the Hong Kong delegation. The territory’s athletes achieved a historic haul, securing 19 medals in total, comprising nine golds, two silvers, and eight bronzes.

Mr. Lee expressed immense pride in the athletes’ achievements, highlighting the standout performances that contributed significantly to the record tally. Notably, cyclist Lee Sze-wing secured an impressive three gold medals in her events, while swimmer Siobhan Haughey earned two golds and two bronzes.

Hong Kong athletes demonstrated broad competence across various disciplines, collecting podium finishes in competitive sports including sailing, cycling, tennis, swimming, rugby, triathlon, and fencing. Officials hailed the results as a testament to the persistent hard work and unity within the entire delegation.

Unity and Legacy: Transforming Sporting Passion into National Power

The Chief Executive acknowledged that the games’ success was not only a reflection of the athletes but also the dedication of coaches, referees, staff, and thousands of volunteers who fueled the event with their enthusiasm.

“They used their passion to warm the fields of competition and their sweat to light up dreams,” Mr. Lee remarked, reflecting on the shared, unforgettable Quanjunhui experience.

Following the conclusion of the 15th National Games, Mr. Lee emphasized that the competitive spirit and passion generated by the major event would be channeled into sustained efforts to strengthen China’s sporting capabilities. The government plans to convert the high-octane atmosphere into “momentum for the construction of a strong sports nation.”

Crucially, the joint hosting arrangement between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao is viewed by analysts as a significant step in realizing the vision of greater economic and social integration within the burgeoning Greater Bay Area cluster, demonstrating administrative and logistical synergy on a grand scale. The successful handover ensures the continuity of one of China’s most significant recurring sporting events, now set to take place in Hunan Province. Mr. Lee concluded by urging citizens to continue offering their full support to the Chinese Hong Kong athletes as they pursue future international competitions.

HONG KONG — Authorities in Hong Kong have launched a thorough investigation after discovering that sensitive personal information belonging to registered voters was illegally uploaded and shared on various social media platforms. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) government swiftly and strongly condemned the unlawful breach late yesterday, emphasizing that any action intending to compromise or interfere with the electoral process constitutes a serious offense.

The breach prompted immediate action from the Electoral Affairs Commission (EAC), which referred the matter to law enforcement agencies and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) for urgent follow-up. While officials did not disclose the full extent of the compromised data or the number of individuals affected, the seriousness of the violation has spurred an intensive probe by police to determine the source and motives behind the data leak.

Privacy Officials Demand Data Removal

In response to the egregious privacy violation, the PCPD initiated its own inquiry and immediately contacted the operators of the social media platforms hosting the illegally obtained data. According to a government statement, the online platforms cooperated immediately with the demand, confirming that the unauthorized voter information had been removed and taken offline.

Law enforcement is currently canvassing the evidence and gathering intelligence, indicating that decisive action, including potential arrests, will be taken once the investigation yields concrete findings. The government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against such electoral interference.

“Any attempt to undermine or disrupt the election is a grave crime,” a government spokesperson asserted in a press release. “Once detected, authorities will enforce the law strictly and without leniency. Individuals must refrain from testing the law, or they will face severe consequences.”

Protecting Electoral Integrity

The incident highlights growing concerns over the security of voter records and potential digital threats aimed at destabilizing upcoming elections. While Hong Kong’s electoral framework is distinct, the unauthorized disclosure of personal data echoes global trends where digital platforms are exploited for malicious purposes, often impacting democratic processes.

The Electoral Affairs Commission maintains that the integrity of the voting process remains paramount and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to secure government databases. Privacy experts suggest the incident serves as a critical reminder for all government and social organizations handling sensitive personal data to continuously review and bolster their cybersecurity defenses, particularly in periods leading up to major public events like elections.

Citizens are advised to remain vigilant regarding unsolicited communications or suspicious online activity that may involve their private information. The government urges anyone with knowledge regarding the upload or distribution of the illegal voter data to step forward and assist authorities.

Ultimately, the goal of the current investigation is twofold: to punish those responsible for the illegal data dissemination and to reassure the public that voter secrecy and data protection remain foundational elements of Hong Kong’s civic framework. Further updates on the progress of the law enforcement action are expected in the coming days.

HONG KONG — Hong Kong has set a remarkable new benchmark for high-rise construction, completing an 18-story public housing complex in less than 18 months, a feat that is now attracting significant international architectural and engineering attention. This innovative project, centered on the Cai Hing Light Public Housing Estate Phase One, leverages advanced modular construction techniques to address the city’s critical housing shortage.

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho shared on social media today that she recently hosted a delegation, including Josep Miàs, founder of the acclaimed Spanish firm MIAS Architects, for a tour of the Cai Hing project. While the building’s aesthetic is utilitarian and modest, its design and construction methodology are being hailed globally as a powerful case study in rapid urban development and prefabricated building systems.

Modular Construction Triumphs Over Housing Shortage

The swift completion of the Cai Hing estate hinged on the Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) method, which involves prefabricating large components—sometimes entire units—in mainland China’s Greater Bay Area factories before transporting and assembling them on site. This strategic integration of cross-border manufacturing capabilities proved key to achieving the accelerated timeline.

“The project is a deeply valuable reference point for the industry,” Ho stated, noting that the international visitors praised the complex for being simple yet welcoming. The incorporation of bright color palettes and comprehensive support services provided by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) aims to empower residents. “These elements give citizens moving in the energy to re-plan their lives and move forward with confidence,” Ho remarked.

The city’s housing bureau has been under intense pressure to increase housing supply quickly. The MiC method offers a scalable solution, dramatically reducing the time typically required for conventional high-rise development.

Innovation Embraces Sustainability and Community

A unique aspect of the Cai Hing tour is the adjacent transitional housing project, “Lok Uk,” which serves as a real-world example of the MiC units being disassembled, repurposed, and relocated. Miàs and his team reportedly recognized the environmental merits and conceptual breakthroughs inherent in this sustainability model.

Following the viewing of the temporary housing, bureau officials guided the delegation to the permanent Hai Tat Estate to showcase the Housing Bureau’s concept of “Happiness Design.” This philosophy goes beyond mere architectural layout, focusing on integrating green spaces, public areas, and vital social and retail facilities to meet the complete daily needs of residents.

Key Features of Hong Kong’s Housing Innovation:

• Speed and Scale: 18 stories built in under 18 months using MiC.
• Cross-Boundary Collaboration: Leveraging Greater Bay Area manufacturing precision.
• Sustainable Repurposing: Demonstrating the reusability of modular components.
• Community Focus: Integrating social welfare support and dedicated public spaces.

Bureau staff also detailed the architectural engineering involved in the 145-meter-long footbridge connecting the Hai Tat and Hoi Ying Estates. Utilizing advanced digital modeling tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM), the massive steel span was successfully maneuvered and joined in a single overnight operation. The seamless planning and execution of this complex maneuver drew considerable praise from the visiting architects, illustrating how integrated management and modern technology are making previously “impossible” construction feats routinely achievable.

The success of the Cai Hing estate solidifies Hong Kong’s position as a laboratory for rapid, high-density urban housing solutions. As global cities grapple with similar supply crises, these MiC projects offer a compelling blueprint for how modular construction, coupled with holistic planning, can deliver livable, quality housing fast and efficiently. The experience gained here is expected to inform future public and private residential developments worldwide.

HONG KONG — Two men were sentenced to extended prison terms Friday after admitting to laundering millions of dollars linked to sophisticated online recruitment and investment scams that targeted Hong Kong residents between May 2023 and January 2024.

The District Court sentenced one local man, 50, to 45 months in prison, and a mainland Chinese man, 34, to 38 months. Both sentences included a 20% enhancement requested by prosecutors, which the court granted, underscoring the severity of their roles as “mule account” holders. The pair collectively facilitated the movement of more than HK$15 million in criminal proceeds.

The arrests followed extensive police investigations into two separate but related fraud rings operating during the nine-month period.

Investment Scams Lead to HK$10 Million Laundering

In one case, the New Territories North Regional Crime Unit for Technology and Financial Crimes led an investigation after four victims reported losing a combined total of approximately HK$12.6 million. The victims were lured into depositing funds through seemingly legitimate websites or applications under the guise of high-return investments. They became suspicious when they were unable to withdraw their promised profits.

Police identified the 50-year-old local man as a key component in the operation. Between July and December 2023, the defendant used his personal bank accounts to process about HK$10 million derived from the scams.

The man was charged with one count of “handling property known or believed to represent proceeds of an indictable offense”—the legal term for money laundering. After pleading guilty, prosecutors sought the enhanced sentence, accepted by the court, resulting in the 45-month term.

Recruitment and Investment Fraud Nets HK$5.2 Million

In the second case, officers from the Border District’s Major Crime Unit investigated five victims who fell prey to separate online recruitment and investment schemes between December 2023 and January 2024. These victims reported cumulative losses of about HK$4.4 million.

The investigation led to the arrest of the 34-year-old mainland Chinese man in May 2024. Police determined he had used five different bank accounts to handle approximately HK$5.2 million in criminal funds between December 2023 and March 2024.

He also pleaded guilty to five counts of the same money laundering offense and, likewise, received a 20% sentence uplift, leading to his 38-month imprisonment.

Senior Superintendent Shin Man-yin of the police’s Financial Intelligence and Investigation Bureau emphasized the need for public vigilance following the sentencings. Authorities warned citizens against facilitating criminal networks by providing access to personal financial tools.

“Do not rent out or sell your personal banking or payment accounts,” Superintendent Shin stated. “These accounts are exploited by fraudsters for money laundering and receiving crime proceeds.”

Under Hong Kong law, individuals who assist fraud syndicates can face charges for obtaining property by deception, which carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison upon conviction. Furthermore, those who rent out their accounts can be prosecuted under the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 455). Money laundering is punishable by up to 14 years in prison and a maximum fine of HK$5 million, underscoring the serious legal risks associated with acting as a financial facilitator for criminals.

Police confirmed they will continue to pursue those who aid fraudulent activities, urging the public to report any suspicious requests regarding their financial accounts immediately.

HONG KONG — A 77-year-old man with dementia, missing for nearly two days, was safely recovered Thursday by Hong Kong search teams after a critical GPS tracking device temporarily failed, complicating an intense, round-the-clock rescue operation on a remote hillside.

The elderly man, a resident of Sau Mau Ping Estate, was reported missing Wednesday evening after leaving his home and last being seen at a shopping center on Sau Ming Road. His worried wife contacted authorities at approximately 7 p.m., noting her husband had managed to call her but was unable to clearly describe his location, raising immediate alarm.

Initial Trace and Signal Dropout

Crucially, the missing man was equipped with a tracking device provided through the “Smart Tracker” program, a joint initiative between the police, the Social Welfare Department, and local non-profits designed to assist individuals with cognitive impairments. Using the device’s data, police initially determined the man’s last known location was on a slope near Fei Ngo Shan (Kowloon Peak), close to a specific temple in the Shun Lee Estate area.

Search and rescue personnel immediately deployed to the rugged terrain at about 2 a.m. Thursday. However, upon arrival, the tracking signal abruptly ceased, likely due to the device’s battery failing or the unit being lost.

“The loss of the GPS signal significantly increased the difficulty of the rescue,” a police spokesperson stated, highlighting the shift from targeted recovery to a broad search effort across difficult, densely forested slopes.

Expanded Search and Successful Recovery

Undeterred, police and fire services personnel launched an extensive ground search. By 4 a.m., the operation had expanded to neighboring hilltops, prompting the deployment of the Government Flying Service. A helicopter was called in to provide aerial surveillance over the Sau Mau Ping and Shun Lee areas, its distinct sound audible throughout the day as teams combed the ground below.

By Thursday afternoon, with the man still unaccounted for, the police department released his details and image to the public, appealing for witness information. The lengthy search concluded successfully around 5 p.m. Thursday when the ground search teams located the missing man. He was reported to be conscious and coherent upon being found.

The Role of the Smart Tracker Program

This incident underscores the double-edged nature of technology in emergency response, where devices provide vital initial leads but are subject to failure. The successful initial location, however, validated the primary benefit of the Smart Tracker program, or “智蹤計劃” (Jī Zōng Jìhuà).

Launched in April 2022, the initiative provides vulnerable individuals, including those with dementia and disabilities, with location-aware devices linked to caregivers’ smartphones. This allows for swift localization when an individual wanders or becomes lost, significantly reducing the duration and danger associated with these events.

While the tracker’s battery life ultimately proved a limitation in this instance, the prompt data retrieved enabled authorities to narrow the search area substantially from the entirety of Hong Kong to a specific hillside area, ultimately facilitating the successful outcome.

Caregivers of elderly relatives or those with cognitive challenges are encouraged to explore programs like the Smart Tracker initiative and to diligently monitor the equipment’s battery status and functionality. This proactive oversight remains the most critical factor in ensuring these crucial safety tools continue to protect vulnerable community members.

HONG KONG — Cyclist Sze Wing Lee, overcoming a devastating performance at the Paris Olympics, dominated the recent National Games, securing three gold medals and marking a profound return to competitive form. Lee, often dubbed the “Hong Kong Cycling Princess,” shared the emotional journey behind her recent victories in an exclusive interview with Stride Life, a publication of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), confirming her laser focus on the upcoming Asian Games and World Cup season.

The triple triumph included golds in the individual road race, the Madison, and the omnium events. Speaking to HKJC Executive Director of Corporate Affairs Tan Zhi-yuan, Lee detailed the symbolic importance of each win. “The first gold in the road race felt like liberation; it confirmed my training direction was correct,” Lee explained. “The Madison gold was the big surprise—a tactical breakthrough my partner and I never planned, which opened up new strategic possibilities. But the omnium gold was the most crucial. Given my disappointing 20th place finish at the Paris Olympics, winning this event, my main discipline, was essential to reaffirm my ability.”

Overcoming the Olympic Low Point

Lee described 2024 as a dispiriting year, particularly after the Paris Games, where she aimed for a top-10 finish but placed 20th in the omnium. Her tearful post-race interview resonated deeply with Hong Kong viewers, highlighting the severe blow to her confidence. Acknowledging the pain, Lee recognized the setback as necessary introspection.

“Everyone fails sometimes,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of confronting personal shortcomings. “I began a deep self-reflection on what weaknesses needed improvement. The crucial element was mentality—overcoming internal doubts and persevering. I am not ready to give up.”

This period of deliberation transformed into rigorous preparation for the National Games. With an intensified training volume and a new detailed plan from her coaches, Lee executed her resurgence impressively. She credited her robust support system, including her dedicated coaching staff, teammates, and the comprehensive backing provided by the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI), which offers crucial support ranging from nutrition to accommodation.

Father’s Influence and the Pursuit of Excellence

Lee’s fiercely competitive spirit stems partly from her childhood experiences. Diagnosed with hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder, she was enrolled in various sports by her father, progressing from Taekwondo to triathlon, before discovering cycling at age 10. She joined the junior national squad at 14.

She credits her father for instilling a relentless work ethic. “My dad would take me running immediately after work,” she recalled. “He ran faster than I did, but he never slowed down. I had to chase him, and that built my unyielding determination not to lose.”

Despite her recent achievements, Lee remains modest about her popular moniker, the “Cycling Princess,” admitting she doesn’t believe she deserves the term “god of cycling” until she achieves the status of world champions like Wong Kam Po or Sarah Lee Wai Sze.

With winter training commencing, Lee is now fully focused on the Asian Games and the World Cup circuit next year, dismissing any alternative plans for 2026. Her philosophy, forged in the crucible of elite sport, offers a broader life lesson: “When you are in a trough, don’t just dwell on the immediate failure. Reflect and understand yourself, and a new breakthrough will follow. Life is cyclical; a low point inevitably leads to a new peak.”

Unprecedented Support Fuels Success

The athlete’s journey is significantly bolstered by institutional support. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has allocated more than HK$750 million to the HKSI over the years for infrastructure, coach training, and athlete development.

Following the National Games, where the Hong Kong team secured a record-breaking 9 golds, 2 silvers, and 8 bronzes, the HKJC’s Outstanding Athletes Award Scheme will distribute HK$11.475 million in prize money. Lee, securing three gold medals, will personally receive HK$2.25 million, a sum she views as vital recognition.

“This cash reward symbolizes the community’s appreciation and recognition of our dedication,” Lee said. “It encourages us to continue pushing our limits and strive for greater success.” The HKJC also provided over HK$500 million to support the organization of the 15th National Games across Hong Kong, Macau, and Guangdong, including extensive volunteer programs and technical support for equestrian events.