ExplainerTokyo 2020 Paralympics: how many medals did Hong Kong win at the Rio 2016 Games?

Hong Kong won two golds, two silvers and two bronze medals five years ago, with most of the medallists on their way to Tokyo

Can the 24 Paralympic entrants help add to the already remarkable overall tally of 40 golds, 37 silvers and 49 bronzes?

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Hong Kong’s Rio 2016 Paralympic Games medallists (from left) Leung Yuk-wing, Justine Charissa Ng, Alison Yu Chui-yee, Tang Wai-lok and Chan Yui-chong arrive at Hong Kong International Airport in 2016. Photo: K. Y. Cheng

Published: 8:00pm, 17 Aug 2021Updated: 9:53pm, 17 Aug 2021

Team Hong Kong is sending 24 athletes across eight sports for the upcoming Paralympic Games scheduled for August 24 to September 5 in what will hopefully be another historic Tokyo outing for the city.

Alongside 40 coaches, medical staff and officials, the National Paralympic Committee and Sports Association for the Physically Disabled is looking for a strong outing in archery, athletics, badminton, boccia, equestrian, fencing, swimming and table tennis, with nearly half of the delegation making their Paralympics debuts.

Though Hongkongers are likely to still be celebrating the six medals – one gold, two silvers and three bronzes – from last month’s Olympic Games, the city’s Paralympians have won a staggering 40 golds, 37 silvers and 49 bronzes since first competing in 1972.

Hong Kong sent 24 athletes to the Rio Paralympics five years ago, winning two gold, two silver and two bronze medals. The Rio tally was met with some disappointment as Hong Kong had won three golds, three silvers and six bronzes at London 2012.

Here’s what you need to know about each podium-placer and who is set to defend their crown in Japan later this month.

Hong Kong swimmer Tang Wai-lok wins gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games Photo: HK Paralympic Committee