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The following is issued on behalf of the 2009 East Asian Games (Hong Kong) Ltd.:
One day before the curtains go up on Hong Kong's greatest sporting show to date, a simple and solemn ceremony was held at Olympic Square in Hong Kong Park this afternoon (December 4).
Two flags - representing the East Asian Games Association and the HK 2009 East Asian Games - were already fluttering in the breeze since dawn in one corner of the amphitheatre-shaped square.
Representatives of each of the nine teams, comprising officials and athletes, stood to attention as the flag of their country climbed the flag-pole to the accompaniment of their national anthem.
Following in the right order, the flags of China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Korea, Macau, Mongolia, Chinese Taipei, Guam and Hong Kong reached the top of the pole to signify that all was ready.
A traditional part of all international multi-sport competitions, "Village Hong Kong-style" is the accommodation for athletes in hotels close to competition venues. The ceremonial event also serves as a gesture of welcome by the host city and signifies that the teams have arrived.
The Secretary for Home Affairs and the President of the 5th East Asian Games Planning Committee, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, welcomed the teams and Mr Timothy Fok, President of the East Asian Games Association delivered an address at the ceremony. Both of them presented tokens of appreciation to representatives of the nine participating countries/regions.
Ends/Friday, December 4, 2009
Issued at HKT 22:29
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