Editorial | Let’s bring international sports events back to Hong Kong
- Months of social unrest and now a deadly virus have forced the cancellation of a number of competitions, but their return would be the surest sign that the city is getting back to business
The successful staging of Hong Kong’s marquee golf tournament this month marked a welcome return to the city for international sport after the cancellation of numerous events during seven months of social unrest. The 61st Hong Kong Open, played on a beautiful course in Fanling, was not disturbed by protests and provided a wonderful weekend of golf. It was won by Australian Wade Ormsby. The event had been due to take place in November, but was postponed because of the unrest.
That said, the outbreak of the deadly new virus in mainland China will pose a new challenge for the city. Basic precautions should be taken at sporting events, where so many people gather. The government’s publicity campaign has boldly declared that Hong Kong is “on”. It is to be hoped that more sports events can return to the city, as this is the surest sign that it is getting back to business.