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SHA's speech at Opening Ceremony of Race Village of Volvo Ocean Race (English only)
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     Following is the speech by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Lau Kong-wah, at the Opening Ceremony of the Race Village of the Volvo Ocean Race today (January 17):
 
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. I am delighted to join you all here at the opening ceremony of the Race Village of the Volvo Ocean Race for the Hong Kong Stopover.
      
     The Volvo Ocean Race is the longest and toughest professional sporting event and one of the top three sailing competitions in the world. 
      
     We are proud to play host as a Stopover city, and we have the first-ever participation of a Hong Kong team in the Race. I am really eager to see the seven participating teams competing in our iconic Victoria Harbour. Their presence in our own waters will reinforce Hong Kong's status as a centre for international sporting events.
      
     For years, the Hong Kong Government has been committed to promoting sports through the staging of mega events. The Volvo Ocean Race Hong Kong Stopover is awarded the "M" Mark status by our Major Sports Events Committee. It is also a celebration highlight of the 20th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. 
      
     With the aim to share the excitement with our people, there will be free admission for all during the Race Festival. Quite a number of activities can be expected and we hope that the public and our visitors will enjoy all the programmes.
      
     I would like to say that the hosting of the Stopover in Hong Kong would not be possible without our dedicated partners and supporters. On behalf of the Hong Kong Government, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hong Kong Sailing Federation, the Volvo Group, HGC and all volunteers for their valuable contribution in making this highly anticipated event happen. My thanks also go to all other sponsors for their great generosity and total support.
      
     Last but not least, I wish the Race every success and our overseas guests an enjoyable stay in Hong Kong. Thank you.
 
Ends/Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Issued at HKT 11:28
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