Around the Island Race Returns Saturday with 1,500 Sailors and Asian Games Medallists
Thestandard · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Sun Hung Kai & Co Around the Island Race, organized by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, is set to return to Victoria Harbor on Saturday, bringing together approximately 1,500 sailors from over 200 teams for the 45-kilometer circumnavigation of Hong Kong Island. This traditional event, with a history spanning more than 160 years, uses a staggered pursuit format where fleets start in batches according to their ratings. Commissioner for Sports Polly Chong Man-ting will officiate the starting ceremony. The event features multiple Asian Games medallists, including gold medalists Ethan Kiu and Louis Polson in the 29er class and silver medalists Tiffany Mak Hiu-tung and Emily Polson in the 49erFX, who are expected to serve as role models for young local sailors.
Key Points
- The Around the Island Race takes place this Saturday (November 7) in Victoria Harbor, covering 45 kilometers around Hong Kong Island in a clockwise direction
- About 1,500 sailors from over 200 teams will compete, with Commissioner for Sports Polly Chong Man-ting presiding over the starting ceremony
- Asian Games gold medalists Ethan Kiu and Louis Polson (both 15 years old) will compete in the 29er class alongside other medallists including silver medalists Tiffany Mak and Emily Polson
- Windsurfing returns for its second consecutive year after a 22-year absence, with Asian Games silver medalist Ma Kwan-ching among the competitors
- Strong winds of up to 20 knots are forecast for race day, with David Norton expressing confidence that new records could be set
Why It Matters
The participation of elite athletes in this historic event provides a significant opportunity to nurture young local sailing talent, with 15-year-old Asian Games champions demonstrating that success at the highest level is achievable for Hong Kong's youth. The race also showcases Hong Kong's unique maritime geography, from the iconic skyline of Victoria Harbor to the natural beauty of the island's southern coast, while international competitors from Australia, Europe, and the United States add an extra layer of competition that will challenge local sailors .
The participation of elite athletes in this historic event provides a significant opportunity to nurture young local sailing talent, with 15-year-old Asian Games champions demonstrating that success at the highest level is achievable for Hong Kong's youth. The race also showcases Hong Kong's unique maritime geography, from the iconic skyline of Victoria Harbor to the natural beauty of the island's southern coast, while international competitors from Australia, Europe, and the United States add an extra layer of competition that will challenge local sailors .