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Abseiling, canoeing and mountain biking have become increasingly popular outdoor activities among young people. However, the need for specialised equipment, suitable venues and professional instruction often makes these experiences inaccessible to many.
With renewed support from Link Together Initiatives, InspiringHK Sports Foundation launched Sports LinkVenture. This programme marks a departure from their previous running-focused initiatives, offering young people aged 12–18 the chance to engage in sports that are typically beyond their reach. Channel 823 recently caught up with two participants to learn about their experiences.
Twelve-year-old Joli Lau, a Form 1 student, participated in trail running, mountain biking and canoeing during the first phase of the programme. Mountain biking left the greatest impression among these: “We started with the basics, learning turning and braking techniques on flat ground under the instructors’ guidance. Once we mastered those skills, we tackled the Tai Lam Mountain Bike Trail in Tuen Mun. With its views of Thousand Island Lake, the scenic route was both thrilling and enjoyable.”
She recalls, “Cycling uphill was physically demanding and challenging, while coming downhill required precise guidance from our instructors. Watching myself improve and develop new skills really boosted my confidence.”
Joli also emphasises the social benefits: “I’ve made new friends through the programme. Instead of spending weekends playing video games at home, I now explore the countryside. It’s much better for both my mind and body.” She adds that she’s eager to get her friends involved as well.
Sunny Yeung, a Form 2 student, joined the programme at the encouragement of a friend. Under expert coaching, he tried roller skating and abseiling. “Roller skating was my favourite activity, but abseiling was the most thrilling and challenging. Descending Fei Ngo Shan was nerve-wracking at first, but having the instructors by my side really helped calm my nerves,” he shares.
Sunny is already looking forward to participating in the second phase of training, which runs from February to May, and is eager to build on his newfound skills and confidence.
In addition to ‘Mountain and Sea Adventures’, the programme also provided bouldering and skateboarding training in urban areas for youth. The programme’s first phase, launched last November, trained 119 secondary school students from across the city. Programme coordinator Karina Chan explains, “Our goal is to broaden students’ horizons through these challenging activities, encouraging them to step beyond their comfort zones while creating more opportunities for them to connect with nature and enjoy sports activities in their community.
The second phase of training will begin soon and will be provided to phase one participants who would like to be trained further in a particular sport Karina hopes participants will enhance their physical and mental wellbeing and inspire their peers to embark on similar adventures.
