An alumni association for athletes of the Hong Kong Sports Institute - Friends of HKSI - has been set up to promote sports in the territory. Hung Chung-yam, chairman of the association's executive committee, said the association would make every effort to promote the public image and status of athletes. 'For example, some young athletes' parents may be concerned about their children's grades if they spend a lot of time training,' he said. 'But the dilemma can be resolved with better time management and discipline. Young people are capable of handling their school work and sports training at the same time.' Mr Hung, who used to be a cyclist, believed that athletic training could enhance the growth and development of young people and help them learn to overcome obstacles and frustrations. 'We hope the alumni association will elevate the athlete's social profile and discover young athletes in different sectors of society,' said Amy Chan Lim-chee, HKSI athlete affairs manager. At the inauguration luncheon meeting held recently, 60 athletes came home to the institute and elected a seven-member committee. About 250 athletes are currently supported by the HKSI scholarship scheme. One-third of them are in full-time training programmes in 17 different sports. Besides social gatherings, Friends of HKSI will also take part in charity events and social service campaigns. Members of the preparatory committee had a hard time finding their long lost friends for the reunion. 'Our athletes have ended up in different fields, like coaching, business, administration and social services,' Mr Hung said. The independent, non-profit-making organisation welcomes all alumni. Current scholarship athletes can join as associate members.
