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The outstanding achievements of Hong Kong's athletes at two recent major Games were once again in the spotlight when a presentation by the Hang Seng Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme was held at the Hang Seng Bank Penthouse today (30 November).

Presented by the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) and sponsored by Hang Seng Bank (the Bank), the Scheme awarded cheques totalling HK$794,000 to medal winners in recognition of their accomplishments at the 10^th National Games in Jiangsu and the 4^th East Asian Games in Macau.

HK$480,000 of the total amount awarded went to medallists at the National Games, at which Hong Kong won one gold and three bronze medals in cycling and athletics. The remaining HK$314,000 was awarded to medal winners at the East Asian Games, from which Hong Kong athletes brought home two gold, two silver and nine bronze medals in athletics, dragon boat, karatedo, rowing, shooting, swimming, tenpin bowling and wushu.

Supported by the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, the Hong Kong Paralympic Committee & Sports Association for the Physically Disabled, and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the Scheme aims to recognise Hong Kong athletes' achievements at major Games, including the 10th National Games, the 4^th East Asian Games and the 2008 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games to be held in Beijing.

The Bank's sponsorship of the Scheme involves matching cash incentives offered by the HKSI on a dollar-for-dollar basis. 

Despite facing tough competition at the two recent Games, Hong Kong athletes performed admirably. Dr Eric Li, Chairman of the HKSI, paid tribute to their hard work and efforts, and thanked Hang Seng for its support.

"The athletic standard at these Games continues to improve and it was not an easy task for Hong Kong athletes to win medals. I heartily congratulate the medal winners and all our other participating athletes on their efforts. I would also like to express my gratitude to Hang Seng Bank for their keen encouragement of sports in Hong Kong. With the Bank's continued support over the years, Hong Kong athletes have been receiving the increased recognition that they deserve," said Dr Li.

"I look forward to the two important Games in 2008 and, with the support of Hang Seng, I hope more Hong Kong athletes will benefit from the Scheme."

Mr Raymond Or, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive of Hang Seng Bank, said, "Our athletes faced stiff competition at the recent Games and put in strong performances. Hang Seng is very proud to be working with the HKSI to offer cash awards to Hong Kong medallists. These incentives recognise athletes' achievements and encourage them to continue to excel and pursue greater accomplishments."

"I am delighted to receive this award as it is a big recognition of my efforts. I sincerely thank Hang Seng and the HKSI for its long-term support of the Scheme, which continues to benefit Hong Kong athletes," said cyclist Wong Kam-po, who has participated in three National Games and picked up two bronze medals for Hong Kong at the 10^th National Games.

The Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme was introduced by the HKSI in 1994. The Bank has been sponsoring it for the Olympic, Paralympic and National Games since 1996. To date, over HK$6.4 million has been awarded to 81 medallists. This year is the first time that the Scheme has included athletes competing at the East Asian Games.

In addition to Dr Li and Mr Or, The Hon Timothy Fok, President of the SF&OC also officiated at the awards presentation ceremony. Attendees included members of the Hong Kong delegations to the two Games and representatives from national sports associations.

Hang Seng Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme

Cash Awards for Athletes in Major Sporting Games (equally funded by the Hong Kong Sports Institute and Hang Seng Bank):