Shanghai racing ahead of Hong Kong
Mainland's economic powerhouse isn't just eating our lunch when it comes to business, sports-wise we're miles behind
Superman has spoken and his words bode ill for Hong Kong. Li Ka-shing, fondly portrayed as the comic-book hero by locals, has warned Hong Kong is set to be eclipsed by Shanghai soon as a happening place - that is if we don't act fast and pull our fingers out.
The Cheung Kong boss was talking specifically of the outcome of the central government's plans for a free-trade zone in Shanghai. When it happens, Li believes Shanghai can dull the shine of Hong Kong, and that it will have "a bigger and quicker impact" than many expect.
The bottom line is that Asia's richest man believes we should be worried about being number two to Shanghai. We won't get into a debate about the economic fallout facing our city but focus instead on the facts that concern sports - we are already trailing Shanghai.
Now that Superman has spoken, let’s hope those in the corridors of power will sit up and take notice
For a city to be truly world class, it must not only be a place where one can work and make money freely but also a place where residents can enjoy art, culture and sport. Hong Kong is a culinary capital of the world and it boasts a lot of self-made millionaires. Li, with US$25 billion to his name, leads the billionaires' list. But if we are right up there on the food and dough front, it is not the case when it comes to other worldly pleasures.
We cannot hold a candle to the sporting extravagance cities like London and New York boast. These are truly world-class cities. But our government is quick to emphasise the fact - or rather fantasy - that we are Asia's world city.
Let's consider what we can offer sports fans in comparison to Shanghai. The latter has any number of world events, from Formula One racing to the HSBC Champions golf tournament, which later this year returns to the city with US$7 million prize money on offer. It has an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, which attracts the world's top players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. It boasts a Diamond League athletics competition and a snooker Masters where the world's leading personalities in both sports appear. It is a stop for a leg of the FIA World Touring Car Championship.
These are only a few of the international events Shanghai has. There are many others, from archery and darts world cups to basketball, volleyball and a marathon.