Feature: Hong Kong, Macao paddlers carrying high hopes at China's National Games

by sportswriters Li Chunyu, Yue Ranran and Guo Yuqi

MACAO, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Macao resident Liu Feng Theresa was delighted to cheer for Hong Kong paddlers Wong Chun Ting and Doo Hoi Kem, the mixed doubles top seeds, in their opening victory at China's 15th National Games on Saturday.

At the Galaxy Arena in Macao, Wong and Doo rallied past Zhou Yu and Zang Xiaotong of Hebei 10-12, 11-8, 11-7, 11-5 in the round of 16.

"As table tennis is known as our national sport, there will be fierce competition at the Games definitely, while the strength of China's Hong Kong and Macao paddlers is noteworthy in particular," said Theresa, a volunteer for guide service at the arena.

Not paying much attention to their seeding, the Hong Kong duo said they were excited to gather with many old friends in table tennis at the Games co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.

"Players always want to chase the title, but we need to move forward step by step and just focus on each match. Today, we communicated actively and trusted each other as always, which was a great start," said 34-year-old Wong, the first torchbearer in the Games' torch relay in Hong Kong.

"The seeding didn't give us pressure. The best news for us was to take a rest in the first round," Doo said with a smile. "We are clear about our status and will not regard ourselves as the top duo. No easy matches here. We will cherish this opportunity and enjoy the Games."

After meeting friends from other teams, 28-year-old Doo said, "We grew up together in training camps for young talents years ago. We are familiar with each other and have great relationship."

Wong added, "We didn't compete here many times before, but we adapted to the environment quickly. I heard Cantonese in the arena. As the crowd cheered warmly, we felt extra energy."

Beyond the star players from Hong Kong, Theresa said her confidence in Macao paddlers comes from what she has experienced and witnessed on campus.

"Sports activities have already integrated into the students' campus life of all ages. Many schools in Macao arrange physical education for students almost every day to improve their strength. Among the events, table tennis is a popular choice," she said.

Theresa was a teacher at a primary school in her hometown Qitaihe, a city located in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. After becoming a Macao resident in 2014, she sought to integrate into the local community by learning Cantonese and said she found shared goals in education.

"I consider more about education as I have a nine-year-old child now. I love running, and I know sport is an important aspect in cultivating children's patience, courage and persistence," Theresa said. "A large-scale event like the National Games will further ignite the passion in younger generations."

Meanwhile, world No. 6 women's paddler Zhu Yuling, currently representing Macao, has brought new hopes for the local development of table tennis.

Zhu, 30, captured the title at the World Table Tennis US Smash in July and will open her National Games campaign with a second-round singles match on Monday.

Theresa said she believes Zhu will encourage more young people in Macao to get to know and practice the sport over the long term.

The table tennis competition at the National Games runs through November 20.

"We have much to expect for paddlers from across the country, including Hong Kong and Macao," Theresa said. "At the Galaxy Arena, the best is yet to come." ■