Hong Kong sports organisers continue to decry government’s inaction – ‘it’s ludicrous’
- Sporting venues across the city have remained closed for more than a month
- Local organisers say government inaction needs to end so people can resume exercising
Hong Kong’s sporting bodies are uniting in their efforts to convince the government to allow them to resume sporting activities.
“The blanket closure of all sporting facilities is not acceptable to most people,” said Hong Kong Tennis Association president Philip Mok, noting the HKTA posted another plea on its social media sites for the government’s ear. “It's been many months since the first wave and the government should put a system in place to regulate which facilities should be kept open or closed depending on the severity of the situation.”
Danny Lai, the chief executive officer for the Hong Kong Golf Association, said a “phased reopening” could be done along with the adoption of “robust” social-distancing measures.
“Many coaches and caddies currently have no means to earn an income due to the closure of golf venues,” said Lai, who noted Hong Kong has five golf courses and multiple driving ranges. “A phased reopening is crucial to helping coaches and caddies whose livelihoods depend on access to the golf venues, allowing Hong Kong team and professional players to hone their skills, and offering social players the opportunities to enhance their physical and mental well-being.”
David Pool, the head coach of the Hong Kong Island Stingrays swimming club, said swimming is an activity that can be done by people of all ages and athletic capabilities due to its low impact on the body.