Editorial | Hong Kong’s sweeping ban on surfing makes no sense
The government should seek to calm the waters and engage with the surf community so that a solution can be found for the enjoyment of all
The emergence of 15-year-old Yang Siqi as China’s first surfer to compete in the Olympics made waves, generating excitement and inspiring others to take up the increasingly popular sport. But in Hong Kong, the surfing community has been left confused and frustrated by stricter enforcement of a ban.
Surfing is prohibited at beaches deemed to be reserved for swimming. Offenders face a fine of HK$2,000 or even two weeks in jail. This is intended to protect swimmers. In practice, however, the sport has been tolerated.
The few Hong Kong beaches suitable have long been popular with surfers, notably Big Wave Bay where boards are rented out and lessons available. This changed in the summer when “no surfing” signs were erected at this beach and others with police patrols and intervention from lifeguards stepped up.
The government has offered no explanation, but the crackdown follows a pledge to tackle risky behaviour by storm-chasers and others during extreme weather conditions.
There is a legitimate concern about reckless conduct during stormy weather, including surfing in rough seas. Those who indulge in dangerous behaviour not only put their own safety at risk but that of the emergency services who will be tasked with rescuing them if they run into trouble.
But that does not mean that surfing should be banned altogether, regardless of the conditions. A way should be found to ensure that surfing can be enjoyed, safely and lawfully. Surfing and swimming coexist happily in many parts of the world.
