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A new chapter in the history of the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) was written as athletes, coaches, government officials and guests helped commemorate the operation of the Institute's new headquarters at YMCA Wu Kwai Sha Youth Village (WKSYV) today . Hong Kong's top athletes and officials took part in a housewarming party to mark new beginnings for the Institute, which has been relocated from Sha Tin to WKSYV since the move began on 1 January.

The relocation comes hot on the heels of Hong Kong's outstanding performances at last December's the Asian Games in Doha, where the SAR won a record of 28 medals, including 6 golds, 12 silvers and 10 bronzes. The move also follows Hong Kong's remarkable success at last November's FESPIC Games in Kuala Lumpur, where Hong Kong captured 25 gold, 30 silver and 25 bronze medals.

The relocation was needed to make way for construction of facilities to host the equestrian events for the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and the new facilities at WKSYV has now become "home" to many of Hong Kong's top athletes.

Dr Eric Li, Chairman of HKSI, said he was pleased that there has been a smooth transition with the Institute's relocation and the housewarming party marked an important milestone for elite sports development in Hong Kong. He stressed the HKSI will continue to work closely with organisations and associations for the betterment of sports excellence.

"Even though the HKSI has been relocated to a new headquarters, our goal remains the same. The new headquarters at the WKSYV will no doubt play an integral part in the athletes' lives just like Fo Tan did. We will continue to develop elite sports, while identifying and nurturing potential athletes so they can do Hong Kong proud on the international arena."

"Today marks a new chapter for the HKSI and I am happy to be able to share this special moment with all of you. We may face new challenges but together we will continue to strive for more honour and glory. I am sure with the success of our athletes at last year's Asian Games in Doha and the FESPIC Games in Kuala Lumpur, we will continue to shine on the international arena with the same spirit and determination we have always shown," added Dr Li.

Dr Patrick Ho, Secretary for Home Affairs attended today's housewarming party and said, "I would like to express my sincere thanks for the cooperation of the concerning departments to complete the Institute's relocation exercise. I hope our Hong Kong athletes will continue to show their commitment for attaining better results both here and abroad in the future."

Dr Cheng Hon-kwan, President of the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong, Wai Kwok-hung, Chairman of the Sha Tin District Council, Lam Woon-kwong, Chief Executive Officer of Equestrian Events (Hong Kong) of the Games of the XXIX Olympiad Company Ltd, as well as representatives from the Government, sports sector and local community have also attended today's event.

Attending guests were invited to sign on a commemorative display board to mark the opening of the HKSI new headquarters at WKSYV. Dr Chung Pak-kwong, Chief Executive of the HKSI then led guests and dignitaries on a tour of the new facilities after proceedings.

Athletes and coaches have expressed satisfaction with the new facilities and services offered at the new headquarters, which provide a wide array of facilities for elite athletes. Apart from the training facilities for some elite sports, the new headquarters also provides sports science and sports medicine services, an athletes' hostel, a fitness training centre and a restaurant.