Coinciding with World Book Day on 23 April, City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) Press and the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates (HKAAA) proudly hosted The Legacy of the Track: The 75-Year History of the Hong Kong, China Association of Athletics Affiliates book launch cum seminar titled “In Pursuit of Excellence: The Journey of Athletics in Hong Kong” at the Hopewell Hotel in Wan Chai. This new book is not only a historical account of the development of athletics in Hong Kong, but also records the intertwined life stories of a group of devoted athletics lovers, showcasing the indomitable spirit of pushing limits and pursuing excellence, thereby leaving a significant mark on local sports history. Both CityUHK Press and the HKAAA hope that, through this book, they can promote athletics in Hong Kong, foster personal development, and further connect with the community.

Passing the Torch: Chronicling a 75-Year Journey of Dedication

Mr. Kwan Kee, MH, editor-in-chief of the book and Chairman of the HKAAA, remarked in his speech that launching the book on World Book Day was especially meaningful. Since its establishment in 1951, the HKAAA has developed under often challenging conditions. This book meticulously documents the association's history of starting out small and pushing forward with tenacity. The book covers the legacy of association leaders, stories of athletes’ tireless efforts, and highly representative local events, such as the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon and the Three-Runway System 10K Race, showcasing athletics events that Hong Kong people can truly be proud of.

Mr. Edmund Chan, Director of CityUHK Press, explained that publishing this book on World Book Day not only encourages reading, but also conveys positive messages through the moving, true stories within its pages. He was deeply touched by the perseverance of athletes in coping with injuries. He noted that the HKAAA’s 75-year dedication is akin to a long-distance race. He hopes that through reading, the public can travel through time, vicariously experience each athletics event, and implement a spirit of pursuing excellence when tackling challenges in our own lives, passing it on to future generations.



Athletes’ Dialogue: Sharing Extraordinary Lives

The seminar “In Pursuit of Excellence: The Journey of Athletics in Hong Kong” held on the day was hosted by sports media professional Mr. Ng Ka Him (Vince Ng), who invited several athletes to share their stories:

  • Dr. Yeung Sai Mo, MH, JP, a former athlete and member of the HKAAA management team, shared that although athletes had far fewer competitive opportunities in the past compared to today, pure passion has always been the key force propelling generations of athletics practitioners forward.
  • Mr. Tang Hon Sing, once known as the “Prince of Hurdles” and now a coach, shared how he continually set goals and demonstrated resilience, ultimately reaching the Olympic stage. He encouraged younger generations to be the best version of themselves and to positively influence others.
  • Ms. Yiu Kit Ching, the Hong Kong women’s marathon record holder, analysed her mental journey through tough times, emphasising that those who persevere till the end may not be the most talented, but it is only those who never give up who can achieve success. She urged young people to dare to strive and go all out.

 

 

Acknowledgements

This event was part of the “Hong Kong Reading Plus 2026” programme and Reading Activities Tour, organised by the Hong Kong Publishing Federation, with major sponsorship from the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDAHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.