THERE are 146 days to go before this year's Asian Games open in Hiroshima, proclaims a huge sign in the main hall of the Hong Kong Sports Institute in Sha Tin.
But as Hong Kong's top athletes gear up for this regional test of sporting excellence, up-and-coming competitors are trying hard to reach the standard required for them to participate.
A total of $4 million has been given out this year by the Sports Aid Foundation in annual grants for 45 elite athletes, including windsurfer Lee Lai-shan and badminton player Chai Po-wa, who received more than $65,000, while 16 ''potential'' athletes received about $25,000 each. Grants were also offered to 19 disabled athletes.
Those turned down for subsidies will have to tighten their belts and work doubly hard to achieve results, while even those awarded the $25,000 allowance find it offers little security.
''It's not enough,'' said rower Chung Chi-lok. one of the ''lucky'' athletes to receive a grant. ''But rowing is my interest and I want to do it when I am young. You can't expect to be heavily subsidised in Hong Kong.'' He was disappointed with the size of his grant. Having finished in sixth place in one of the canoeing events at the last Asian Games, he had applied as an elite athlete.
''I don't understand why I was given so little,'' the 22-year-old said. ''I was hoping to get $40,000.'' Chung's daily rowing practice starts at 6.00 am, followed by weightlifting and other physical exercises. For the past year, his life has centred around the institute: ''I seldom go out. I go home every two weeks. My life is quite monotonous, but it's worth it. I want to see results from it.'' Athletes recommended by their sports associations are entitled to receive full-scale training at the institute, including free residence and meals but even so they have little spending money unless awarded a grant.