15th July, Hong Kong: Hong Kong Tenpin Bowling Congress celebrated its 45th year of the hosting of the immensely popular Hong Kong International Open during the opening ceremony held at SCAA Bowling Centre on Monday evening.

The championships, which kicked off two days ago following the successful hosting the the 20th Asian School Tenpin Bowling Championships from July 6 to 12 at the same bowling centre. This year's championships has attracted more than 350 bowlers from all over Asia including the middle east and south pacific.

Gracing the opening ceremony was guest of honour, Mr William Tong Wai Lun, SBS, MH, JP, Vice President of Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China. Distiguished guests officiating the opening were Mr David Kung, Hon. Life President, HKTBC, Mr Jeff Kong, President of HKTBC, Ms Vivien Lau, BBS, JP, Chairman of HKTBC, Ms Ida Lee, JP, Acting Director of Leisure and Cultural Services and Mr Duffy Wong, BBS, JP, Vice President of SCAA.

The emcee, Mr Eric Lee kciked off proceedings with the introduction of the distinguished guests and dignitaries before inviting Mr Jeff Kong and Mr William Tong to deliver their opening speeches. This was followed with the celebration of the 45th anniversay of the Hong Kong International Open by Board Members of HKTBC.

As usual, a traditional lions' eye-dotting ceremony followed which was performed by Mr William Tong, Mr Jeff Kong, Mr David Kung, Ms Ida Lee and Mr Duffy Wong. A group photo session was held briefly before the lion dance commenced.

Welcome and Good Luck banners were displayed at the end of the lion dance. A distinguished and dignitaries group photo session were held which then concluded the open ceremony. Several Challenge Cups were contested thereafer.

Teams will be vying for the top three spots in the Inter-Centre President Cup, International Youth Cup, Sports & Recreation Cup, Inter-Hong Kong Challenge Cup and Inter-Club Challenge Cup.