* Park guests get up close with their favorite Olympic heroes
* Hong Kong athletes inspire young people to pursue their dreams
HONG KONG, Sep 1, 2024 – Today, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) proudly hosted the Homecoming Celebration for the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (Paris 2024). Around 1,000 invited guests including members of the delegation, along with their families and friends, gathered in honor and celebration of the outstanding performances and sportsmanship of their compatriots.
Athletes who participated in different sports shared their journeys with young sports enthusiasts to inspire them with the boundless possibilities they can achieve with dedication, perseverance, and passion for their dreams.
An exclusive, joyful grand ceremony and processional were arranged for the athletes and their supporting teams, who joined Mickey Mouse and his friends in a lively street celebration, receiving cheers and congratulations from thousands of park guests. The delegation enjoyed their day at the park, savoring a delightful feast at Explorer’s Club Restaurant, and meeting their favorite Disney characters.
Michael Moriarty, managing director, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort celebrated the delegation’s achievements at Disney’s Storybook Theater. “Disney is one of the best places to celebrate life’s incredible milestones,” he said. “This homecoming celebration is in recognition of their incredible achievements, showcasing the unwavering spirit of Hong Kong. I hope their journey will inspire our younger generation to pursue their dreams with the same passion.”
Joining the event as guest of honor was Commissioner for Sports in the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau Sam Wong.
“Seeing the Hong Kong, China Delegation achieved historic results is really invigorating. The determination, resilience and perseverance shown by the sportsmen are great qualities that everyone should learn. I would like to thank HKDL for arranging this event to celebrate the achievements of Hong Kong athletes,” said Wong.
Olympic athletes come together to celebrate their achievements
Artistic gymnastics veteran Stone Shek, who is a three-time Olympian, was thrilled to be at HKDL to celebrate together with other athletes, including the badminton duo Tse Ying-suet and Jordan Tang, swimmer Stephanie Au, and cyclist Ceci Lee.
“Without the continuous support of my team and Hong Kong citizens, standing on three Olympic stages would not have been possible. The journey of pursuing my dreams has not been plain sailing, but I am grateful that I was able to break through each time and fulfill the promises I made to myself. I would like to share this special moment and joy with every one of my supporters, especially on an occasion filled with magic and happiness like here at HKDL,” Shek said.
The pair of shuttlers Tse and Tang, who have been long-time partners on the court, also took some time off to relax in the happiest place in the world with families and friends, recharging themselves before embarking on their next adventure.
“Badminton holds an important place in my life, and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to share my passion for this sport with everyone here! It was a memorable experience to relax with my family at Hong Kong Disneyland, especially after the Olympics,” Tse added.
At the celebration party, unsung heroes including the medical team, coaches, and team managers were also honored. Additionally, local sports media who reported on the Paris Olympics were invited to the park in appreciation of their hard work.
Inspiring upcoming sports talent with motivating stories and continued community outreach
Following the celebration, rower Chiu Hin-chun and fencer Cedric Ho interacted with a group of underserved students from Hong Kong Christian Service and the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs Association of Hong Kong, who completed sports training workshops at the “Disney All-Star Sports Legacy Academy.” By sharing their experience of overcoming challenges and the journey to becoming athletes, both of them hoped their stories would inspire and motivate the next generation to pursue their athletic dreams.
Following Hong Kong’s continuous sporting successes, HKDL remains committed to strongly supporting local sports development. The resort has been collaborating with the Sports Legacy Scheme, a charitable institution run by the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, to host the “Disney All-Star Sports Legacy Academy” since 2022. This program has provided over 300 hours of professional sports training, conducted by local retired and retiring athletes to Hong Kong children and youth.
– THE END –
About Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort offers unforgettable, culturally distinctive Disney experiences for guests of all ages and backgrounds. Filled with your favorite Disney stories and characters, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort offers guests the opportunity to explore eight diverse lands that are home to award-winning, one-of-a-kind attractions and entertainment. Complete your adventure with stays at the resort’s luxurious Disney hotels. The magic doesn’t end at our doorstep; as a dedicated member of the local community that cares deeply about societal wellbeing, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort spreads its magic through community service programs that help families in need, boost creativity among children and families, encourage the protection of the environment and inspire healthier living.
Mobile app gives the latest updates & helps plan your visit
The Hong Kong Disneyland mobile app keeps guests informed of all the excitement at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, from operating hours to entertainment schedules. Reserve your park visit and get Disney Standby Pass to meet Disney friends inside the park. Use the GPS-enabled map to find your way around the park or make reservations for park and hotel restaurants, and make every moment count with wait times for each attraction. Magic Access members can also view block-out calendars and membership privileges, designed to make your visit even more magical.
Download the Hong Kong Disneyland mobile app for free:
iOS users: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1077550649
Android users: https://goo.gl/ZbHHbP
Media Enquiry
Media Relations, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Email: HKDLMediaRelations@disney.com
