Hong Kong Amateur Athletic Association (HKAAA) chairman William Ko has revealed that middle distance racing was not even included in the controversial scoring system that decides Focus Sport status, even though it is the most popular form of athletics in Hong Kong. Middle distance racing has a huge following in the SAR, as shown by the number of competitors who took part in last year's Standard Chartered New Airport Marathon and 10-kilometre run. More than 5,000 runners competed in the 10-kilometre race and another record number of participants is expected to compete in this month's marathon. A further 1,100 runners entered last year's marathon. The HKAAA is hoping to regain Focus Sports status - which provides at least $2 million in technical and other support over the next two years - after losing that privilege recently. The HKAAA held an executive committee meeting on Tuesday night when it endorsed a 'paper' of the association's view of the situation. Ko said he would present the association's case to the Sports Development Board's (SDB) review panel this morning. 'A lot of clubs, coaches athletes and even sponsors have expressed concern over this issue,' said Ko. 'Our executive committee felt we must present our case to the SDB.' The HKAAA first met with SDB officials on January 25. Four days later, the association formally lodged its appeal. 'We will simply present our paper to the SDB and ask for several points to be clarified,' said Ko. 'We will ask the review panel how the scoring system was implemented and what criteria were assessed. 'We want them to clarify this point. We hope they will reverse their decision. 'We hope the athletes get what they deserve. We're not trying to stir trouble. 'As chairman, I must fight for the athletes who train every night and compete on weekends,' added Ko.
