404 Recreation, Sport and the Arts
international multi-sport event in which more than 2 100 athletes took part, competing in 22 sports.
The participating countries and regions were China, Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Macao, Mongolia, Chinese Taipei, Guam and the host, Hong Kong.
A floating stage, erected off the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront with picturesque Victoria Harbour as a backdrop, was the centrepiece of the spectacular opening
ceremony.
All of the top athletes performed brilliantly befitting their status. A total of 58 Games records were broken. A series of night shows was held as part of the event, highlighting the culture of the countries and regions participating in the Games.
Besides competitive sports, the EAG provided an opportunity for the participants to learn more about each other's culture and to strengthen friendship and solidarity.
Hong Kong athletes fared exceptionally well, reflecting their years of strict training and commitment. They were roundly cheered by the home crowd who contributed in no small measure to their winning 110 medals (26 gold, 31 silver and 53 bronze) and breaking 18 Hong Kong records.
One of the star performers was Hong Kong's football team which beat strong squads from across the region to win gold. More than 30 000 local supporters turned up to cheer them at the Hong Kong Stadium.
The 11th National Games of the People's Republic of China
The 11th National Games of the People's Republic of China was held in Shandong Province in October 2009. Held every four years, the National Games is the highest level multi-sport event in the country and this was the fourth time the HKSAR participated. Hong Kong sent about 230 athletes and 110 officials, the largest ever delegation, to compete in the finals of 25 competition events. Hong Kong competitors in cycling, equestrian and triathlon events won a total of seven medals, two gold, one silver and four bronze, the highest number of medals Hong Kong had ever scored at the National Games.
2009 Bun Carnival
Tens of thousands of local and overseas visitors converged on Cheung Chau Island to watch the popular annual Bun Carnival which was held from April 18 to May 3. The carnival was given extensive coverage by the local and international news media. More than 6 000 people took part in the competitions and other activities, the highlight of which was the bun scrambling competition in which participants vied with each other to retrieve buns from the exterior of the 14-metre high bun towers.