Torch relay set to light up Hong Kong
The finale venue of the East Asian Games (EAG) torch relay has been changed, but Hong Kong is ready as ever to host the city's biggest multi-sports event later this year. Saturday's torch relay will now end at Golden Bauhinia Square after public criticism of the decision to hold the finale at TVB City in Tseung Kwan O.
Liu Ming-kwong, deputy secretary for the Home Affairs Bureau, said this 'slight adjustment' showed the government had listened to public opinion. The gala show marking the 100-day countdown celebrations will still be held at TVB City that night after the relay.
Timothy Fok Tsun-ting, chairman of the EAG organising committee, said: 'The significance of the torch relay won't be affected even though the finale has changed. I hope everybody will come out and support the athletes.'
On Saturday, Olympic gold medallist Lee Lai-shan will light the Games flame at the Wan Chai venue. She appealed to the public to support the city's greatest-ever sporting showpiece.
Meanwhile, the organising committee announced that tickets will go on sale from Monday.
Tickets for the EAG opening ceremony, to be held at the Cultural Centre Piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui on December 5, will cost HK$1,000 each.
The closing ceremony will take place at the Hong Kong Coliseum on December 13. Tickets are priced at HK$200, HK$400 and HK$600.
Spectators will have to pay between HK$50 and HK$300 to watch the competitions.
Early birds who buy tickets before September 13 will enjoy a 10 per cent discount. Half-price tickets are available for the elderly, the disabled, children and students.
Emily Tam Min-yin, a secondary school student, said: 'With the half-price discount, I think I'm going to buy a ticket to support Hong Kong athletes if they can get into the finals.
'I think our squash players and windsurfers have the best chance.'
