ENG-1976 — Page 258

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Recreation & Sports Service

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There are hundreds of organisations which have long catered for sport and recreation in Hong Kong, but a unique role is played by the Recreation and Sport Service which was formed only two years ago. Its aim is to bring fitness and fun to everyone, ir- respective of age or ability. It goes about this by providing instruction, organising events, and helping the community to make full use of all facilities available. The service is operated by the Education Department and it works closely with sports associations, voluntary agencies, youth groups, and relevant government departments. It has been welcomed and has grown beyond all hopes, and there are now full-time sports officers in each of the 17 districts covering all of Hong Kong. Some 4,000 coaches and leaders trained by the service give instruction in sports, athletics, and gymnastics, and activities include folk dancing, country outings, and arts and crafts. There are activities for the handicapped and for the very young, and weekend family sports centres have been set up in school premises. There are also sports camps for young people and for families, and a former Army camp has been transformed into an outdoor recrea- tion centre.

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Waterpolo (cover) has become a popular sport through the enthusiasm of 50 coaches trained by the Recreation and Sport Service. The high jumper (above) is a contestant at a district athletics meet; a lesson in life saving; and youths taking part in one of 30 football training courses.

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