(BEIJING, November 5)-- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has made extensive preparations for the equestrian events of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2008, according to Mr. Tsang Tak-sing, secretary for Home Affairs Bureau.

The HKSAR government has paid great importance to the Olympic Equestrian events, Tsang told a press conference on Monday. He said there have been extensive discussions and good cooperation between the HK Sports Federations & Olympic Committee and BOCOG (Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad). During the Good Luck Beijing sport events in August, the equestrian venues successfully endured the downpour and typhoon attacks, and won favorable comments from various circles.

The HK Jockey Club has spent a total of HK$800 million to build the equestrian venues, Tsang said. So far the two venues at Shatin and Beas River and related facilities have been completed. All horse stables have been equipped with air conditioners to cope with warm weather, while the Olympic equestrian events are planned to be held in the early morning or at dusk.

A place with a long history of horse racing, Hong Kong has built a complete quarantine system with qualified veterinarians, he said.

Tsang said the selection and training of volunteers for the equestrian events have progressed smoothly. In addition, some 120 torchbearers are expected to take part in the torch relay for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games, he added.