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HONG KONG WATER SKI ASSOCIATION (II)
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The forming of HKWSA
The idea of forming a national water ski association arose in 1976, though skiing had existed in Hong Kong for many years previously, mainly as a casual sport but with occasional competitions. In 1977, the Hong Kong Water Ski Association officially came into being as a national authority whose objectives were to promote the sport, organize competitive events, and select skiers to represent Hong Kong internationally. Since its formation, HKWSA has organized annual national and open tournaments which have become the highlight of the local skiing calendar, and participating in regional events and Government sponsored water ski carnivals. In March 2001, the Association became a company limited by guarantee, registered in Hong Kong and in 2002, the Association also becoming a “Observer Member” of Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China. Wakeboarding is more and more popular in nowadays and the Association is incorporating with HKWSA wakeboarding Division to promote wakeboarding in Hong Kong in 2002.
Aims and Objectives
The Mission Statement of the HKWSA is –
"To increase the awareness of, and encourage the greater participation in towed water sports in Hong Kong. In particular the sports of Water skiing, wakeboarding and their derivatives.”
The Objectives of the HKWSA is –
- To promote the sports of water skiing & wakeboarding in Hong Kong.
- To provide equipment and training facilities for all levels of water skiing & wakeboarding.
- To promote competitive water skiing & wakeboarding.
- To train and develop skiers/riders from elementary to national and international level.
- To represent Hong Kong in regional and international events.
Sadly after the loss of regular use of the West side Coffer Dam until 2000, the high standards achieved in the late 1970's and early 1980's were not maintained. However, negotiations with the Government have resulted in increased access use of the Coffer Dam on two Saturdays every month during November to May. This objective remains at the top of our list. HKWSA's medium term objectives include:
- Securing a permanent site for competitive skiing and training
- Establishing low-cost mass skiing facility, probably by means of overhead cable
- Providing ski boats and competent drivers to enable members to ski more regularly
- Encouraging new and especially young skiers to channel their energy into developing competitive skiing/wakeboarding skills, so that the Association will one day be able to field a world-class ski team
- Promoting safety in skiing/wakeboarding and ski-boat driving
- Ensuring that sensible attitudes to the sport prevail in official circles
- Promoting environmentally friendly aspects of water sports
If you require further information don’t hesitate to call us at 2504-8168 or visit HKWSA webpage at www.waterski.org.hk.
* Information & photos provided by the National Sports Association
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