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How China's policies have impacted our most-loved events


Photo credit: Reuters

As clashes between anti-government protesters and the police rage on in Hong Kong, business is certainly not as usual in the city.

Safety and security concerns for both players and spectators play a key role, as organisers decide whether various sports and live performances should carry on as planned.

Here are 6 events which have responded differently to the protests:

1. Hong Kong Tennis Open

Photo credit: WTATennis.com

A mainstay on the Hong Kong sports calendar, the Hong Kong Tennis Open recently announced their decision to postpone the showpiece event to a later date.

Returning to Hong Kong in 2014, the Open boasts a long tradition in the former British colony, dating back to 1980.

Although they haven't directly cited the ongoing protests, the announcement comes during a marked escalation in violence and extra checks at the airport.

There is good news though - organisers are in talks with the Women's Tennis Association and other bodies about rescheduling the Open to a later date!

2. Hong Kong ASTC Sprint Triathlon Asian Cup/Asian Aquathlon Championship

Photo credit: Winnie Yeung

Triathlon athletes from Hong Kong and overseas will be rueing the cancellation of the Hong Kong ASTC Sprint Triathlon Asian Cup/Asian Aquathlon Championship.

The official website refers to the 'escalated' and 'widespread civil unrest', with safety of all involved playing a huge part in this decision.

Unfortunately, the event will not be rescheduled but all participants will be entitled to a full refund.

3. Pink Dot

Photo credit: PinkDot

Since 2014, PinkDot has established itself as one of Asia's biggest LGBT+ events, drawing attendees from across the region and beyond.

Held in West Kowloon Cultural District, the Carnival creates an atmosphere of acceptance and diversity (greatly helped by live performances from local artists), allowing people of all sexual orientations to socialise and simply enjoy a day out.

With over 10,000 people expected to attend, the current climate has forced organisers to cancel the event and focus their efforts on next year's edition.

4. NETFESTHK

Netballers of all ages will be met with disappointment at the news that NETFEST has also pulled the plug on this year's event.

Having had much success in the past attracting major clubs such as Hong Kong Football Club, Hong Kong Scottish and DB Pirates alongside a good mix of local and international schools, the decision was made also in light of the current climate.

Fortunately, the event promises to be back bigger and better in 2020.

EVENTS STILL ON

5: IRIS: Your Escape with ManulifeMOVE

Photo credit: The HK Hub

Bucking the trend, IRIS: Your Escape with ManulifeMOVE will instead ride out the storm and continue as usual from September 21-22.

Celebrating its 9th anniversary, the event brings together like-minded fitness and wellness enthusiasts, as well as everything in between including health foods, supplements, apparel, live performances and much more.

Spreading positive energy might be the way to take our minds off the ongoing conflict, if only for one weekend!

To enter our quiz giveaway for your chance to win 2 FREE tickets to IRIS: Your Escape with ManulifeMOVE, click here.

Alternatively, click here to purchase your IRIS: Your Escape with ManulifeMOVE tickets.

6: Pink Walk

Photo credit: Pink Walk

The annual Pink Walk is set to carry on as usual at the Peak this year on 27 October (correct at the time of writing), raising awareness about breast cancer as it has done in previous years.

Teams and individuals taking part are in the midst of raising funds with help from family and friends, which will go towards research, patient support and other important services.

If you're looking for a team to join, Sonia from Phenomenally Pink can be reached at 90144516.

Alternatively, find out how you can contribute here.

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