Welcome Home Reception 2024 Paris Olympian cum Rowing Olympians Recognition Ceremony
China, Hong Kong – The Hong Kong, China Rowing Association (HKCRA) and the Hong Kong Olympians Association joyfully co-hosted a Welcome Reception on 2 October, 2024, to recognize Chiu Hin Chun and the team’s return from the Paris Olympics, as well as to celebrate the reunion of generations of esteemed Olympic rowers, who have represented our flag at every summer Olympic Games from 1992 to 2024.
Distinguished guest, The Hon. Timothy Fok, GBM, GBS, JP, was present at the event to recognize the notable group of Olympians, and to help foster a spirit of camaraderie and shared experiences. Ms. Ho Kim Fai, OLY, Chairman of HKCRA, remarked on the significance of this gathering, stating, “This reception symbolizes the history of rowing in Hong Kong through the consolidated performances of these athletes. It’s a reunion of Olympians who have dedicated their lives to sport and have inspired generations.”
From left: Ms. Ho Kim Fai, OLY, Chairman of the Hong Kong, China Rowing Association; Dr. Michael Tse, OLY, JP, President of the Hong Kong Olympians Association; Mr. Mike Tanner, BBS, MH, President of the Hong Kong, China Rowing Association; Mr. Kenny Wu , Head Rowing Coach; The Hon. Timothy Fok, GBM, GBS, JP, President of the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China; Mr. Chiu Hin Chun, OLY, 2024 Olympic Games Rower; Mr. Anthony Rogers, GBS, KC, JP, Honorary Vice-President of the Hong Kong, China Rowing Association; and Ms. Fenella NG, OLY, Founding Member of the Hong Kong Olympians Association.
Dr. Michael Tse, OLY, JP, President of the Hong Kong Olympians Association, emphasized the enduring impact of the Olympic spirit, “This gathering represents commitment to excellence which we all share as athletes and Olympians. An Olympian’s journey does not end on the field of play, but is a lifetime pledge to continue to cultivate and translate the values we cherish to other athletes and the community. It is heartwarming to see everyone come together and celebrate our shared journey.”
As part of this special occasion all Olympian rowers were decorated with the OLY post-nominal letters and certificates granted by the World Olympians Association, bestowed only to Olympians, in recognition of their hard work, dedication, perseverance and sacrifices made for the opportunity to compete on sport’s greatest stage. “Like a PhD, OLY represents the years and decades Olympians commit to honing their crafts and they have earned the right to display OLY after their names as a reminder of their past efforts and their future commitments to furthering the Olympic ideals”, said Dr. Tse. “Once an Olympian, always an Olympian.”
The reception was filled with enthusiasm and nostalgia as athletes reminisced about their Olympic experiences and celebrated the achievements of their peers. The evening highlighted the importance of community and the bonds forged through sport, reminding attendees of the legacy they continue to build in Hong Kong.
The HKCRA and the Hong Kong Olympians Association extend their heartfelt congratulations to Chiu Hin Chun, Head Rowing Coach Kenny Wu and his team for their remarkable performance in Paris and look forward to future collaborations that promote the Olympic spirit in Hong Kong and the development of future Olympians in rowing.