Dear Members of the Hong Kong Rowing Community,

We are deeply saddened by the tragic fire that occurred at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which has taken the lives of residents and a member of the Hong Kong Fire Services Department. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to all the families who have lost loved ones, as well as to those who have been injured or displaced by this devastating incident.

We also wish to pay special tribute to the bravery and selfless service of the firefighters who responded to the emergency, including Fireman Mr. Ho Wai-ho , who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the community. The Hong Kong rowing family has long-standing ties with the Fire Services Department rowing club, and we honour the courage of all emergency services personnel during this extremely difficult time.

Many rowers and supporters live and work in the Tai Po District, which lies close to our Shatin training base. As such, this tragedy has touched our community deeply. For those who wish to offer support, the Hong Kong Red Cross has launched the Tai Po Fire Emergency Appeal to assist the affected families.

Members who wish to donate may do so directly through the Hong Kong Red Cross using any of the following channels:

Online Donation: https://s.redcross.org.hk/TPFEA_Whatsapp

FPS: Hong Kong Red Cross ID 164279317

Alipay HK: http://link.redcross.org.hk/donatealipay

PayMe: http://link.redcross.org.hk/donatepayme

Thank you for standing together with the wider Hong Kong community in this moment of sorrow. Your compassion and generosity are deeply appreciated.

Fay Ho Kim Fai

Chairman

Hong Kong, China Rowing Association