Hong Kong Rope Skipping Championship debuts in shopping mall

Hong Kong Rope Skipping Championships 2025 organized by Hong Kong Rope Skipping Federation (HKRSF) was held on March 8 at Olympian City 2.

Previously held in the Yuen Long Jockey Club Building Sports Centre, this is the first time this competition was held in a shopping mall.

“In the gym, only the family and friends of the athletes would be there to watch, but in the mall, many passersby would also stop and watch the game,” said Leung Kin-lok, 31, a member of Rope Skipping Sports Federation of Hong Kong. 

More than 400 players participated in this competition, the highest in five years.

The event features speed and endurance races, as well as synchronised and wheel fancy dress races. 

“The mall provided us with site and security assistance, and we brought more foot traffic to the mall,” Leung said. “I think the change of venue this time is quite a successful breakthrough.”

“By holding activities in places with a larger flow of people, we hope that more people can learn about the skipping rope culture and join this sport in the future,” said Leung.

Kwok Long-yin, 13, said that he has been participating in this competition for 4 years, but competing in the mall really gives him a very special and enjoyable experience.

"The atmosphere is great and many passing spectators cheer us on, which gives me greater confidence,” Kowk said.

Since 2014, The Olympian City has been regularly organizing sports-related events, such as the Hong Kong Breakdancing Team Selection Competition and Summer City Sports Carnival.

This rope skipping competition is held annually and it is the only selection for the Hong Kong China Team recognised by the International Rope Skipping Organisation. 

For this competition, only members of the HKRSF are eligible to participate.

Competitors who score 20 points within two years can apply to join the Hong Kong China Rope Skipping Team to represent Hong Kong in international events.

Leung said that he hopes more people know that skipping rope has many forms, and it can not only be a hobby, but also a profession.

Yu Ting-him, a 13-year-old player, said that he could not find a resting seat after the extremely tiring competition. “Some players' rest areas and spectator stands need to be set up next to the competition area,” he said.

Kayla Huang, 16, said that she was not so comfortable with the venue this time. “The floor here is very different from the gym's, and I've rarely trained on this plastic floor before,” Huang said.

Leung mentioned that they will still consider holding the competition in the mall next year. “I believe that the shortcomings discovered this year can be improved in the coming future,” he said.

“All those who are interested in rope skipping are welcomed to be a member of HKRSF and join this competition,” Leung said he hopes that the number of participants next year can continue to increase.