Olympians Viktor Axelsen, Loh Kean Yew offer guidance to Hong Kong youth on sports careers
The Dane and Singaporean, who are here for the Hong Kong Open, opened a window to seven students into life on the worldwide sporting circuit
Two of the global stars competing at this week’s Hong Kong Open have moved beyond the confines of the badminton court to try to establish a legacy in the city.
Viktor Axelsen, the two-times Olympic gold medallist, and 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew provided personal guidance to seven students who are weighing up whether to pursue employment within the sporting sphere.
Professionals with expertise in attracting, staging and promoting major sporting occasions are at a premium, as Hong Kong bids to attract more “mega events” to the city. The ongoing badminton at Hong Kong Coliseum is the 14th of 21 ‘M’ Mark events for 2024, entitling it to government funding and support.
Hong Kong’s pursuit of sporting showpieces is a hot topic following the recent SCMP Hong Kong Sports Economy and Tourism Summit, where a range of influential speakers, from government, promotional agencies, private business and Kai Tak Sports Park explored the city’s potential as a major sports hub.
Axelsen and Loh both opened a window into life on a worldwide sporting circuit, while helping students sample various strands of the sports industry.
