News

Hong Kong cyclist Wong Kam-po, who recently captured a gold medal in men's individual road race and a bronze medal in road time trial (men's team) at the 11th National Games and at the 5th East Asian Games (EAG) respectively, will be conferred an award as Honorary Fellow of the Hong Kong Institute of Education (HKIEd), announced by the HKIEd yesterday.

Dr Eric Li, Chariman of the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI), is pleased to send his heartiest congratulations and the blessings from the HKSI to Wong Kam-po.  “The historic achievement in the medal tally at the EAG definitely proves the ability of Hong Kong athletes.  I am happy to see that athletes’ efforts are widely recognised by people from all walks of life, especially by an academic institution.  This award is presented to Wong Kam-po, not only for his distinguished performance in cycling, but also acknowledges his contribution to nurturing young team members and his efforts to promote the development of sports in Hong Kong.  His enthusiasm and dedication to cycling poses a very good role model for the next generation.  I hope more athletes can receive such great honour in the future,” said Dr Li. 

Wong is honoured to accept the award and is pleased to see the public’s positive attitude in respecting athletes as professionals.   Wong said, “With the recent achievements of the Hong Kong athletes at the Major Games, athletes gain much higher recognition from the community.  I hope that more parents would encourage their children to do more exercise and let them devote to what they are really interested in.”

HKSI Head Cycling Coach Shen Jinkang also showed appreciation to Wong’s contribution and efforts he has made over the years.  “It may take a few minutes’ time to stand on the stage to receive the medal and applauses; but it takes countless efforts and persistence to achieve it.  The hardship that athletes encounter during training and competition is totally unimaginable.  I am especially pleased to see that Ah Po (nickname of Wong Kam-po) is awarded by an academic institution, showing that his achievement is not only recognised by the sports industry, but also the whole community,” said Shen.

Wong is a locally trained, world-class cyclist who has won medals and honours at many major international cycling competitions, including a three-time champion of the men’s individual road race at the National Games in 1997, 2001 and 2009, the first Chinese champion of the 15km scratch race, UCI Track World Championships in 2007, and the champion of men’s individual road race at the Asian Games in 2006.