Hong Kong Wins 110 Medals at East Asian Games
Chief Executive Donald Tsang speaks at the opening ceremony of the Fifth East Asian Games
Local athletes achieved their best-ever result during the recent Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games (EAG) by winning a total of 110 medals. The medal tally of 26 gold, 31 silver and 53 bronze means Hong Kong placed fourth among the participating countries and regions.
To commend the outstanding performances of the Hong Kong athletes during the Fifth EAG, which concluded December 13, the government and the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) held a celebration ceremony at the Hong Kong Central Library.
Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang officiated at the December 18 ceremony and presented certificates of appreciation to the EAG gold medalists. Mr. Tsang praised the Hong Kong athletes for their perseverance and the true sportsmanship they demonstrated at the EAG.
Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing and SF&OC President Timothy Fok also officiated, presenting certificates of appreciation to the silver and bronze medalists.
Mr. Fok said that with the support of the whole community, the Hong Kong delegation achieved its best-ever results in the multi-sport event, living up to people’s expectations. He said he believed the public agreed the Hong Kong athletes had created a legend; their adventurous spirit and arduous training had set an example for others.
The president of the International Olympic Committee, Count Jacques Rogge, attended the EAG and its official opening December 5 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. He said he was impressed by the original and creative opening ceremony produced against the natural backdrop of Victoria Harbour, describing it as a smashing and brilliant opening ceremony. “I have seen many opening ceremonies in my long Olympic life,” he said. “And this deserves a gold medal.”
The EAG are held every four years; the Hong Kong event took place December 5-12. Approximately 2,300 elite athletes from nine countries and regions competed for 262 gold medals in 22 sports. The nine participating countries and regions were: China, North Korea, Mongolia, Japan, South Korea, Macau, Guam, Hong Kong and Taipei, Taiwan.
President of the International Olympic Committee, Count Jacques Rogge (center), left Hong Kong after a three-day visit. He was seen off at the VIP lounge of Hong Kong International Airport by Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing (right) and SF&OC President Timothy Fok (left).
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