Hong Kong looks to future stars

"It indicates that they have passed rigorous evaluations and accumulated rich competition experience, proving the progress of Hong Kong's alpine skiing," said Siu Fai-ho, secretary-general of the association.

"However, Hong Kong does not have natural snowfields, so training can only be done in the Chinese mainland or abroad," said Siu. "There are also other challenges. For instance, the athletes are also students, so the training time can only be arranged during the holidays."

Despite limited training opportunities throughout the year and tight schedules, all team members have given their best efforts and made significant progress.

"At the 32nd Asian Alpine Ski Championships (Junior) 2024 in Jilin province last March, we won a bronze medal, which was not easy to achieve," he said. "Furthermore, some Hong Kong athletes competing in the 2025 Asian Winter Games have transitioned from ice skating to alpine skiing, which means they need to abandon long-developed habits and establish a new system of movements on snow."

"The transition to alpine skiing, with its high speed and physical demands, is extremely difficult," he said. "Obtaining qualification for the Games demonstrates the relentless efforts of Hong Kong's athletes."

To cultivate more talent, the Hong Kong ski team has established its own promotion system, including the "Future Star" program for children aged between 8 and 12.

Those older than 12 have an opportunity to join the "Development Team" and, via systematic training and event selection, qualified members will be promoted to the Hong Kong ski team.

"Our association is committed to providing a development platform for new athletes," said Siu. "Once athletes achieve certain results, many excellent universities in Hong Kong will give priority to their admission, with some even offering scholarships, an initiative that has received widespread acclaim."

Meanwhile, older athletes can choose to transition into coaching to continue contributing to Hong Kong's winter sports program.

"The promotion system provides athletes with diverse career paths, allowing them to continue competing as athletes or pursue further education at universities, offering them a broad range of opportunities," said Siu.