The Olympic flame looks set to fire up Hong Kong, with an array of festive activities to mark the torch relay and angry protests over Tibet expected. A member of the Hong Kong Olympic committee said police might have to use force to protect the torch-bearer if any protesters posed a threat. A 100-day countdown to the Beijing Olympics will begin on April 30 with a variety show at the Hong Kong Coliseum - two days before a leg of the torch relay kicks off in the city. From this weekend, more than 100 events will take place across Hong Kong in the build-up to the Games, including a dragon boat race, an exhibition of paper-cutting artwork, a lion dance and a carnival. Pang Chung, honorary secretary general of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, hoped the torch relay in Hong Kong would be a 'harmonious journey', although the use of force might be necessary to keep it going. 'There might be force or friendly persuasion ... we can't rule out the possibility that someone pops up to grab at the torch runner,' Mr Pang said. 'Hopefully, it will be a harmonious journey that will go along without the use of force.' He said possible security measures might involve police officers running alongside the torch runners to protect them. 'I believe the Hong Kong government will handle it well and Hongkongers will make a concerted effort [to ensure a smooth torch relay].' The torch will be relayed in Hong Kong on May 2 before being sent to Macau. It is expected to stay overnight at Fisherman's Wharf. The April 30 variety show, featuring drummers, dancers, Canto-pop artistes and Cantonese opera performers, will be organised by the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, the Home Affairs Bureau and the 2008 Beijing Olympic Equestrian Events Hong Kong Fund. Casino mogul Stanley Ho Hung-sun and his fourth wife Angela Leong On-kei will entertain the audience with a tango.
