'It takes total concentration. You can also make a lot of friends, as people come here and join us. We are like a big family.'

Katie has introduced her classmate Daphne Kwong to the activity, and now they practise together.

Katie is a member of Hong Kong Juggler Club - a one-year-old club set up by Australian comedian Andy Comic and his friends.

They meet every Monday night from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at Victoria Park, regardless of weather conditions or whether it's a public holiday.

People from all walks of life gather here to juggle clubs, diabolos or devil sticks.

The jugglers see the club as a self-organising school where the experienced teach juniors difficult tricks, and juniors teach beginners the basics.

'It's enthusiasm and the passion of juggling that bring people here,' said 37-year-old Comic.

The history of juggling can be traced back to various early civilisations, including Chinese, Egyptian and Indian.

It is believed that the world's first modern circus, which featured jugglers and clowns, was opened in 1768 by Englishman Philip Astley.

Comic has been a juggler for more than 15 years and has performed around the world.

He has lived in Hong Kong for three years, and performs at parties, shows and company functions as well as in clubs.

He sometimes does street performances in places such as Causeway Bay.

'Hong Kong is an excellent place for jugglers. There are people everywhere. Once you start performing, you draw a large crowd of onlookers.

'Also, juggling doesn't take up much space when compared to other sports. It fits especially well in small cities, such as Hong Kong,' said Comic.

Karen Teoh, a public relations executive, is one of the core members of the club.

She said that sometimes as many as 50 people gather at Victoria Park, especially during summer holiday.

'Juggling is very easy to learn - it takes less than 10 minutes to pick up the basic skills,' said Karen.

It is a good sport for children, too. 'It develops hand co-ordination and good balance. And because it's easy to pick up, it can help kids build up confidence,' she said.

Comic pointed out that the main difference between magic and juggling is that magicians hide their skills, whereas jugglers love to share.

'Juggling is addictive. When you see others doing difficult tricks, you want to learn. And you will continuously improve your skills.'

Joker Marks, a 21-year-old full-time performer, said they plan to invite international magicians and jugglers to join their club.

But he insisted they would not charge a member's fee.

'The aim of the club is to to give free lessons so that the public can join us,' he said.

But Katie sees her hobby more than just fun and a way to make friends. 'I want to be good enough to work as a part-time juggler. Then I can earn lots of pocket money.'