Blade Runner
HK Magazine caught up with competitive ice skater Joe Wong Chun Kit. Wong was one of the proud winners in the recent Ice Skating Institute's competition.
HK Magazine: Are there many other boys out on the ice?
Joe Wong: Ice-skating is actually not very popular with boys. The movements are very artistic and the maneuvers are very pretty so I don’t think it appeals to boys much.
HK: Have you ever been tempted to play ice hockey?
JW: No, I think the game is kind of violent.
HK: What do you wear when you skate? Leotards?
JW: Usually casual sports wear; clothes that are not too tight. I wear track pants and a baggy T-shirt. I have my own skates that I wear for each practice. It’s not that cold during practice and once you warm up it can get quite hot.
HK: How often do you have to practice?
JW: I go twice a week, to both ice rinks: The Tai Koo Shing rink and the Festival Walk Glacier.
HK: Why is ice-skating good for you?
JW: Skating keeps you fit and healthy. When doing the different maneuvers you develop strong leg muscles. Also, we practice a lot of jumps and spin maneuvers, which can help you, develop good balance and improve your physical strength.
HK: What does it take to be good at skating?
YW: You have to like the sport. If you are a beginner you need to be free and daring enough to not mind falling down. It’s not really dangerous but you shouldn’t be afraid of falling. Beginners usually wear helmets and protective equipment though – just in case.