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HK Quits Bid for 2006 Fareast and S-Pacific Games for the Disabled
Hong Kong Sports Association for the Physically Disabled (HKSAPD) recently announced that it had decided to renounce its bid for hosting the 2006 Far East and South Pacific Games for the Disabled.
After its decision to host 2006 Asian Games in 1999, HKSAPD proposed to host the Far East and South Pacific Games for the Disabled. Malaysia and New Zealand were two other applicants for the South Pacific Games. New Zealand had earlier renounced its bid. And with the quit of China's Hong Kong, the sponsorship will undoubtedly fall on Malaysia.
At the end of last year, Hong Kong failed in its bid for 2006 Asian Games at the voting of the Asia Olympic Council. After discussion with HK government and Hong Kong Olympics Committee, the association considered that the South Pacific Games may cost HK$450-600 million, far exceeding the budgeted HK$190 million if it is held in coordination with the Asian Games.
The association holds that it would be of greater cost-effect if the financial resources are put in long-term sports development, such as improving facilities and offering personnel training.. A responsible member of the association said that if it could host the Asian Games in 2010, then Hong Kong would apply for hosting the South Pacific Games for the handicapped.
By PD Online staff member Li Yan
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