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The first 5th Hong Kong Games' (HKG) Vitality Run and a carnival were held successfully alongside the Shing Mun River in Sha Tin this morning (March 8), attracting over 5,000 citizens taking part in the event. The activity aimed to encourage members of the public to exercise more and participate in the 5th HKG.
The Vitality Run was introduced as a new element of the HKG this year to allow more Hong Kong people to join the HKG with their families and friends, and emphasises challenging oneself rather than racing for awards. Participants could enjoy the fun of running while at the same time show support for district athletes who have been diligently preparing for the 5th HKG competitions.
There were two categories in the Vitality Run, namely a 3-kilometre route and an 8-kilometre route, both of which started at the Sha Tin Sports Ground. Each participant got a souvenir T-shirt and a gift pack. Those who completed the run within the time limit also received a certificate and a souvenir medal. To enliven the event, runners with the Most Creative Costume as well as the Overall Best Team Costume were awarded prizes by a panel of judges formed by representatives of the 5th HKG Organising Committee and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the title sponsor of the event.
Many members of the public also joined the event this morning by cheering for the participants at the Sha Tin Sports Ground, alongside Yuen Wo Road and the Shing Mun River. A carnival with singing performances, game booths, a family area and a photo corner was also held at the nearby Yuen Wo Playground to boost the joyful atmosphere and let the runners and cheering crowds share the sporting fun and embrace the city's upcoming major sport event, the 5th HKG.
The HKG is a territory-wide major multi-sport event held biennially with the 18 District Councils as participating units. It covers eight sports, namely athletics, badminton, basketball, futsal, swimming, table tennis, tennis and volleyball. The Games will be held from April 25 to May 31 this year.
Other community involvement activities will also be organised for participation by the general public. On-going activities include online games, voting for My Favourite Sporty District, guessing the Overall Champion of the 5th HKG and the Dynamic Moments Photo Contest. Upcoming activities include the Cheering Team Competition for the 18 Districts and the Grand Opening and Closing cum Prize Presentation Ceremony.
The Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Michelle Li; the Chairman of the 5th HKG Organising Committee (Organising Committee), Mr William Tong; the Executive Adviser of the Organising Committee, Mr Chau How-chen; the Head of Charities Projects of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Ms Rhoda Chan; and the Senior Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Amateur Athletic Association, Dr Simon Yeung, officiated at the event today.
The 5th HKG is organised by the Sports Commission and co-ordinated by the Community Sports Committee, with the 18 District Councils; the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China; relevant National Sports Associations; and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department as co-organisers. The Hong Kong Jockey Club is recognised as the Principal Contributor.
Details about the 5th HKG and other community involvement activities are available at the HKG dedicated website (www.hongkonggames.hk).
Ends/Sunday, March 8, 2015
Issued at HKT 12:25
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