Sport stars defy the pandemic’s disruptions

Hong Kong’s sporting achievements have provided welcome relief from the city’s ongoing battle with Covid-19. A record medal haul at last year’s Tokyo Olympics sparked celebrations. There has, since then, been continued success, despite the pandemic’s impact. Fans were given more to cheer this week with exceptional performances from Hong Kong’s fencing and football stars.

Fencer Edgar Cheung Ka-long became a local hero with his historic gold medal win in the Olympics last year, the city’s first in the sport. He has not rested on his laurels, securing the world number one ranking in April.

Cheung struck gold again in the Asian fencing championships last week, defeating competitors from the China team in both the semi-final and final of the individual foil. This followed a gold medal win for Vivian Kong Man-wai in the épée event.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong men’s football team exceeded expectations by qualifying for the finals of the Asian Cup for the first time since 1968. Victories in India against Afghanistan and Cambodia secured a place for the team in the finals next year.