Claudio Schermi, president of the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), has urged the Hong Kong government to invest in dragon boat racing, especially as the city prepares to host the 2027 World Dragon Boat Racing Championships [ad3e2efd]. This call for investment comes on the heels of the recent Asian Dragon Boat Championships, where China dominated the competition, winning multiple titles [ad3e2efd]. Schermi emphasized the need for improvements at the Kwun Tong Typhoon Shelter venue, which is crucial for hosting international events [ad3e2efd].
Arnold Chung Chi-lok, chairman of the local dragon boat association, echoed Schermi's concerns, highlighting the financial support needed to ensure the success of the 2027 championships [ad3e2efd]. Schermi praised Hong Kong's organization of the recent championships, noting the potential economic benefits that could arise from increased investment in the sport [ad3e2efd]. He specifically called for the construction of a finishing tower and enhancements to race course facilities to elevate the standard of events held in the city [ad3e2efd].
In a broader context, Michael Cheng Ming-git, president of the Hong Kong, China Tennis Association, has also been advocating for increased investment in sports, including tennis, to improve local player development [1f5b10ef]. Cheng's vision includes hosting more tournaments and creating clearer pathways for athletes, which aligns with the sentiments expressed by Schermi regarding the need for infrastructure improvements in various sports [1f5b10ef].
As the Hong Kong government aims to host over 210 mega events in 2024, the emphasis on sports infrastructure and funding becomes increasingly pertinent [232164e3]. The government has previously allocated HK$100 million for esports development, but similar initiatives for dragon boat racing and other sports are crucial for fostering a competitive environment [0adc272f].
The Hong Kong esports scene is also calling for increased support, with industry players urging the government to provide funding to help local players compete internationally [be5270bc]. This interconnectedness of sports development highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to investment in Hong Kong's athletic landscape, ensuring that various sports, including dragon boat racing, receive the necessary resources to thrive [0adc272f].