Runa Reta - WISPA Squash Pro on Tour on www.squashtalk.com

Hong Kong goes up (Photo R Reta)

I AM OFTEN asked of all the places I have traveled to as a squash player, which has been my favourite destination to visit.

Despite having traveled to some incredibly exotic countries, there is no place (in my opinion) that rivals the life and energy of Hong Kong. In fact, despite the painfully long flight and the horribly disorienting jet-lag, Hong Kong remains one of the few places that continues to provoke child-like feelings of excitement and anticipation upon arrival, no matter how many times I go back. With a national sport’s commission that is eager to bring first-class sporting events to this small island, squash players will have a reason to keep returning to this wondrous place. And wondrous it certainly is…

Hong Kong mixes urban with green. (Photo R Reta)

From the moment you step off the plane and into the airport, it’s clear that you’ve arrived in a place of inimitable class and sophistication. Navigating through the various levels and corridors of this impressively built, open-concept airport (noted for its wide carpeted hallways and large windows opening up to the surrounding hills of the airport) and boarding the sky train- an incredibly sleek and futuristic-looking train that leaves quite literally from inside the airport structure and transports people from the mountainous outskirts of Hong Kong to the core of the main island- the technological prowess and efficiency of this specially-administered region of China cannot be more prominently showcased.

Winding through the hills (Photo R Reta)

There are really no words that can do justice to the feeling one gets from exiting the train terminal into the heart of downtown, except that it is so breath-taking and awe-inspiring a sight that no matter how many times one sees it, the effect remains the same. To put it simply, skylines of great cities around the world pale in comparison to the sheer enormity and grandeur of the Hong Kong skyline. Driving through this concrete jungle, winding around these massive structures, one cannot help but look up, jaw dropped in amazement. At times, walking through the crowded streets, lanes and overpasses where signs in Cantonese flash in their fluorescent glory, accompanied by the loud energy that is the natural by-product of considerable human flows, it is easy to feel an overwhelming sense of insignificance and anonymity in this place. But look up to the sky at the towering forms of brilliantly carved concrete, and one cannot help but feel a sense of euphoria and jubilation over the architectural triumphs of man.

Diverse street scenes (Photo R Reta)

On this tiny yet densely populated island, the term “the sky’s the limit” has been adopted quite literally as increasing numbers of residents seek places to live. As ground-space is nearly non-existent, contractors build massive high rise apartments, stacking lives upwards into the seemingly limitless sky. And yet, as unnatural as this may seem, everything is functional here; restaurants, cinemas, shops, hotels are all built seamlessly into the sides of these buildings and skyscrapers, and in turn are all interconnected through a series of walkways and overpasses. Hong Kong is truly an architectural marvel.

The tranquil as well (Photo R Reta)

While Hong Kong redefines and outclasses most cities in the department of imposing, big-city feel, what is particularly impressive about this destination is its diversity, both culturally and geographically. Hong Kong is considered a major international business hub, and this is reflected in the various Western hotels, shops and restaurants that all cater to the needs of the traveling businessman (it should also be noted that Hong Kong was a British colony as recently as 1997, so some of those influences still remain ie. driving on the left-hand side). However, lying side by side to these elements of Western influence are an equal number of Chinese shops, stalls and markets laid out for the local population as well as for the adventurous visitor. Whether you’re purchasing a piece of jade from a roadside stall or some rare form of animal (live or dead!) from a meat market, you can find just about anything in these shops. Hong Kong seems to be the place where East and West meet. There is no semblance of a cultural clash here; only a simple and accepted co-existence that is unique to this great island.

The beauty of the mountains and water (Photo R Reta)

In many big cities, it often seems virtually impossible to escape the frenetic, suffocating pace of life. In Hong Kong however, this is not the case. In addition to the various parks and gardens that are situated throughout the downtown area, it is a short 20-minute drive to the other side of the island where untouched nature and beauty abound. Rolling green hills, white sand beaches and blue waters typify what can be found on this side of the island, without as much as of a hint to the mad frenzy that lies only miles away. Moreover, various outlying islands can be reached by short ferry ride, allowing one to feel altogether removed from the claustrophobia of the city. The slow-paced, traditional lifestyles that persist on these islands, unaffected by the sprawling growth and modernization of the city, are a reminder of a once-prevalent existence, not long ago. Visiting these islands is much like being transported to an entirely different country and time.

Some traditional lifestyle remains (Photo R Reta)

Hong Kong is a fantastic destination for those who love both the elements of the city and countryside. From shopping to rides on the harbour, to picturesque hikes and visits to old temples and boat markets, there is something for everyone. And it is on this exciting background that some of the greatest squash competitions of the year are held. In 2004, the government formed the Major Sports Event Committee, a commission designated with the mandate of developing sport and bringing high-class events to Hong Kong. This committee (led by Herman Hu) along with the sheer vision and innovation evinced by the Chairman of Hong Kong Squash, David Mui, have been the two main driving forces behind some of squash’s biggest events being hosted here. And what events they put on! From marketing to accommodation to media coverage, every single aspect of the organizational process is meticulously and professionally undertaken (I would be remiss not to mention the relentless efforts of Tony Choi and Heather Deayton- two faces synonymous with HK squash- who work tirelessly to direct these campaigns and to ensure that the players’ needs are always being looked after).

Breathtaking skylines. (Photo R Reta)

In 2003 and 2005, Hong Kong hosted the World Open, considered the biggest tournament of the year for both men and women. For both events, the glass court was boldly erected on the breathtaking harbour, thus aptly boasting the larger-than-life nature of this amazing island, and using it as a spectacular backdrop for the squash. This year, Hong Kong held the 2006 Cathay Pacific/Swiss Privilege Hong Kong Open, another major event, bringing in all of the top players in the world. Again, the innovation of Mr. Mui led to the glass court being built in the Hollywood Plaza, a busy shopping mall. With large crowds, television crews, and a massive LCD screen above the court (that played the match in all its magnified glory), it was a truly impressive display. While the players put on an exciting show within the confines of the court, the organizers set the stage beautifully, and showed themselves what it was like to put on a first-class event.

While the various sports commissions are happy to bring in the sponsors necessary to hold such prestigious events, the second aspect of their mandate is to develop their own athletes to a point where they can excel on the world-stage. Surely, they must be heartened to see that their efforts have born fruit. Last year, Hong Kong won the Junior Women Worlds Team title for the first time in history, and several of the girls are already showing signs of success on the WISPA tour. With a steady stream of tournaments in their own backyard that will help to motivate and expose them to high level squash, these young girls have a bright future and a real shot at one day joining their older compatriot, Rebecca Chiu, in the top 20. With continued support and encouragement, these goals could be realized sooner than later.

The squash community has benefited tremendously from the efforts and commitment of the Major Sports Event Committee and HK Squash, in putting on first-rate events each and every year. Their enthusiasm for the game and willingness to provide ongoing support is unrivalled by most, but appreciated by all. We are indebted to their efforts, and will happily continue to visit their beautiful island for as long as they will have us back. - 12/6/2006