Paralympic Equestrian Events achieve unbridled success

On September 10, Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang (second from right) hosted a welcome luncheon for the President of the International Paralympics Committee Sir Philip Craven (second from left). Pictured here proposing a toast at the luncheon are Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang (far left) and the Chairman of the Hong Kong Paralympic Committee and Sports Association for the Physically Disabled Jenny Fung (far right).

Speaking after completion of all Paralympic Equestrian Events on September 11, Hong Kong Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang said Hong Kong had staged the most successful Paralympic Equestrian competition.  He also described the competition as an inspirational occasion that has left the city with an Olympic and Paralympic legacy.

During five days of competition, 73 riders from 28 countries and regions contested team and individual dressage events with a total of 11 gold medals at stake.

“We have achieved our mission of staging two Games of equal splendor. Each rider deserves a gold medal.  The courage, determination and talent of the competitors have been an inspiration to us all and something we will never forget,” said Mr. Tang.

The International Paralympic Committee and the participating teams praised the excellent equestrian competition venue and facilities, as well as the organization of the events.

“I am delighted that Hong Kong has been able to provide world-class facilities and organizational expertise to help make this a successful competition,” said Mr. Tang. “We have tried our best to ensure a safe, comfortable and enjoyable stay for all the visiting riders and officials as well as the horses.  We have made special efforts in providing a barrier-free environment for the athletes.

“Hong Kong people are known for their indomitable ‘can do’ spirit. That spirit has been embodied in every volunteer and every member of the workforce. Our sweat and tears have helped lay down a new standard for organizing equestrian events. My heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone involved in staging this competition. The events have run smoothly and on schedule, which is a credit to all involved.

“I also thank the IPC and BOCOG for their advice and guidance; the FEI for its technical assistance; the Hong Kong Paralympic Committee and Sports Association for the Physically Disabled for promoting the Paralympic movement in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Jockey Club has also done the city proud by providing such a magnificent, world-class competition venue and for helping to ensure the welfare of the horses.”

Mr. Tang admitted to some mixed feelings as the curtain closes on the Paralympics.

“We are thrilled that Hong Kong has come through with flying colors as a co-host city for the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said Mr. Tang. “Over the past months, we have made new friends from all over the world and achieved things we'd only hoped would be possible during the build-up to the Games. Now it is a little sad when a good thing comes to an end, and this has been a wonderful Olympic experience for our city.