Olympics show what is possible in quest for a more peaceful world
- Over 10,000 athletes competed at the Paris Games, displaying a solidarity that is lacking at a time of conflict and geopolitical tensions
The Olympic Games in Paris exceeded expectations, providing excitement, spectacle and a feast of sporting excellence.
Now, with the flame extinguished, there is a need to look ahead. It began with athletes in boats and ended with a Cruise.
Hollywood star Tom Cruise descended into the Stade de France to set the Olympic flag on its way to Los Angeles for the next Summer Games.
Between the two ceremonies, it was all about the action.
Hong Kong was gripped, with celebrations deservedly greeting medal wins for fencers Vivian Kong Man-wai and Cheung Ka-long and swimmer Siobhan Haughey.
But congratulations are also due to the team’s unsung heroes, the athletes who didn’t win medals, the coaches and support staff. They have all played their part.
The government and private sector must join hands to ensure the city builds on this success, with sufficient investment so a new generation of young sporting talent can triumph. Hong Kong can learn from team China’s “breakthrough” performance at the Games, matching the US with 40 golds, the best it has ever done overseas.