27th May, Hong Kong: A colorful opening ceremony graced by Mr Vincent Liu, JP., Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, marked the highly anticipated 1st Asian Para Tenpin Bowling Championships held at Belair Bowling Centre, Shatin.

The ceremony was also attended by Dr John Leung, Chairman of Hong Kong Sports Association for the Physically Disabled (HKSAPD), Ms Vivien Lau, SBS, JP., Chairman of Hong Kong Tenpin Bowling Congress (HKTBC) and Hon. Life President of ABF, representing H.E. Sheikh Talal Mohammed Al-Sabah, President of IBF/ABF.

Also present were Mrs Jenny Fung, BBS, JP., President of Hong Kong Paralympic Committee, dignitaries, sponsors, partners, and committee members of both HKSAPD and HKTBC. Mr Eric Lee, emcee for the ceremony welcomed all present and kicked off proceedings by introducing the Guest of Honour, dignitaries and several notable distinguished guests.

Immediately after the Hong Kong, China national anthem, the emcee introduced the nine participating countries with the marchpast of the teams, starting with China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Chinese Taipei and ending with host, Hong Kong, China.

Members of Team Hong Kong took the athletes oath while Mr William Yau, Host Tournament Co-ordinator, took the oath on behalf of all techincal officials.

Sixty-five men, thirteen women and 33 officials from nine Asian countries are taking part in the 1st Asian Para Tenpin Bowling Championships hosted for the first time by HKSAPD and supported by HKTBC in Hong Kong.

Competition will kick off with the Singles on Sunday, May 28 for the TPB1 and TPB3 in the first squad and TPB2 and TPB10 in the second squad. The Singles third squad for TPB8 and TPB9 will be contested on Monday, May 29.

Doubles and Trios (team) events will be staged on May 30 and 31 respectively. A victory banquet hosted by HKSAPD will be held at Regal Riverside Hotel at 19:00 hrs. ABF Online will bring you live video streaming thoughout the championships with multiple cameras including medal ceremonies.