Huge Genki Kite promotes Hong Kong in Toronto

A gigantic Genki kite, the largest ever seen in Toronto, was unveiled today (August 31) to promote Hong Kong at the launch of KiteFest 2004.

Commissioned by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Canada), the premier sponsor of the event, the Genki kite, emblazoned with the Brand Hong Kong Dragon, was custom made in the kite capital of China, Weifang, to mark the 10th anniversary of Canada's largest and most colourful kite festival.

Through the participation of the gigantic Genki kite and 4,000 smaller kites from Hong Kong, the HKETO hopes to enhance Canadians' understanding of Brand Hong Kong. At the KiteFest launch, participants and media representatives were impressed with the intricate craftsmanship of the 20-square-metre kite and the visual representation of Asia's world city.

Introducing the Brand Hong Kong Genki kite, HKETO Director Mr Bassanio So, said: "Every world-class city has a personality -- attributes that make it distinctive, memorable and instantly identifiable. The visual identity of Brand Hong Kong's dynamic and contemporary rendering of this powerful and energetic Dragon reflects the core values of Brand Hong Kong, which are best described as 'progressive', 'free', 'stable', 'opportunity' and 'high quality'.

"All these unique qualities make Hong Kong the best place to do business," he added.

To generate more interest, a contest has been organized to guess the measurement of the kite's perimeter. The lucky winner will win a C$8,000 Hong Kong Winter Fest holiday package, including a Hong Kong-Toronto economic class round-trip ticket and five nights' hotel, courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board, Cathay Pacific Airways and Harbour Plaza Hotels and Resorts.

The Genki style of kite, invented by Nop Velthuisen of Holland in the 1980s, is named for the Japanese word for health. Its design allows it to fly in winds as light as 3 kilometres per hour.

The Toronto KiteFest 2004 takes place on September 18 and 19 at Milliken District Park. This annual event attracts more than 80,000 kite fliers and spectators, including international teams from Canada, China, Italy, Germany, Japan and the United States.

Ends/Tuesday, August 31, 2004