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With the 100-day countdown to the 11^th National Games (Games) commencing today, the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) and Hang Seng Bank announced that achievements by Hong Kong athletes at the Games will be honoured under the "Hang Seng Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme" (Scheme).

Dr Eric Li, Chairman of the HKSI, highlighted the Institute's appreciation of Hang Seng's long-term support: "We are very pleased that Hang Seng is continuing to support the Scheme and our athletes against the backdrop of the global economic downturn. The Scheme recognises athletes for their achievements and hard work in preparing for the Games, and it is important that the development of sports is supported by various sectors of the community."

Mrs Margaret Leung, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive of Hang Seng, said, "Winning medals in international and national competitions requires a lot of hard work and perseverance. The great efforts of Hong Kong athletes deserve our appreciation and recognition. As a keen supporter of local sports development, Hang Seng is proud to be working with the HKSI to provide awards to Hong Kong medallists at the National Games. I hope the athletes will continue to work hard and achieve outstanding results for Hong Kong."

Under the Scheme, any Hong Kong athlete who wins a gold medal in an individual event will be awarded a cash incentive of HK$300,000, while silver and bronze medallists will receive HK$150,000 and HK$60,000 respectively. For team events, gold, silver and bronze medallists will be presented with cash awards of HK$420,000, HK$240,000 and HK$120,000 respectively. All cash awards will be made by the HKSI and Hang Seng on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

Established by the HKSI in 1994 and sponsored by Hang Seng Bank since 1996, Hang Seng Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme offers cash incentives to local athletes to encourage outstanding performances at the Olympic Games, the Paralympic Games and the National Games. In 2005, Hang Seng extended its sponsorship to medallists at the East Asian Games. To date, nearly HK$8.6 million has been awarded to 111 local athletes by the HKSI and Hang Seng Bank.